Bringing Positivity To The Internet

I submitted my answer on the survey page but thought I would copy it here in the hopes that my fellow forum members can participate in the discussion as well.  Thanks for getting the link fixed so quickly, and most of all thanks for initiating this topic.  Be well!  

In my opinion, most of the vitriol seen online stems from a combination of two dangerous factors: some peoples' general state of dissatisfaction with their own lives coupled with the mask of complete anonymity. These ingredients are an absolute powder keg for the sort of nasty, distasteful ugliness that is often referred to as "trolling" in various online media.



It seems to me that with the scope of digital communications expanding nearly as fast as the universe itself, it will be nearly impossible to eliminate this type of element entirely. Instead I think it is easier to focus on how you personally choose to frame your online experience. Some means that I have found useful in this regard are:



1. Don't shy away from social media. Sites like Facebook and Twitter are great ways to stay in touch with people who are supportive and make you feel good about yourself. Try to restrict those that you follow to people that you actually know or those who you find uplifting. Keeping your interactions personal will remove the element of anonymity, thereby reducing the risk of inappropriate behavior. Don't be afraid to unfollow or block a user who you feel is disrespectful.



2. Read "name brand" sites when checking up on your interests online. For example, if you are into comics, visit the official sites of Marvel or DC. Or, if you like video games, check out the xBox or Playstation pages. These sites are policed by paid webmasters who monitor for inappropriate content and remove it in a timely fashion, so that your experience is pleasant one.



3. Find positive forums to interact with people who share your interests. The Talking Comics forum is an excellent example of a place where you can learn, share, and debate all while making a few new friends in the process. The moderators do a great job of keeping the boards clean, positive, and upbeat. This is the type of standard you should shoot for whatever your interest.



4. Lastly, avoid the dreaded "comments section". It seems that almost every article published online these days would be incomplete without an opportunity for the reader to comment at the bottom. This seems like a good idea in theory, however this is often the epicenter of most trolling activity. You read some fluffy, heartwarming story about the return of My Little Pony and by the third line of the comments someone is threatening another user with vulgarities and accusing them of unspeakable actions. It's not worth your time and more importantly your good mood. Read the story and then pop over to your favorite forum to discuss what you've read with like-minded people who make you feel good.



I hope my suggestions are helpful to your project. I apologize for being somewhat long-winded in my answer, but I am passionate about regaining a sense of humanity in our lives, particularly in our online experience. Please let me know if I can be of any additional help and thanks for creating some discussion on this topic. Best of luck!