I found this recent study on online social dynamics fascinating. Researchers looked at people playing an online videogame (Halo 3) and measured success against their behavior across the genders. It turned out the men were generally complimentary to other male players. Successful men were also complimentary to female players. However, unsuccessful men tended to be nasty and rude to female players. So they were losers in all sense of the word.
This researchers conclusion was that a change in existing social dynamics – in this case an influx of new female players into a previously male dominated area – was a bigger threat to those near the bottom than those near the top. The lower status players had more to lose and hence reacted in an angrier fashion to those they perceive as responsible. This is a conclusion that fits with a lot of my personal observations of life. In a work environment it’s always the confident and expert individuals who are most open to being challenged and debating alternatives. People who are less sure of themselves see each challenge as a direct threat and react accordingly. One could probably do a similar analysis about economics, social classes and the current politics of America.
In the wider world it’s hard to know what the answer to this problem is. Anger from losing out when it comes to economics or social influence can be understandable. But when it comes to online interaction, whether it’s gaming, discussion forums or social media, there’s no excuse for being a douche. If you can’t not be angry then walk away. And if you see someone behaving obnoxiously then call them on it.
This is by the artist Travis Estrella from his tumblr 1000 Pencils.