digital tar: Finding healthier ways to communicate online

Let’s think back to the last time you’velooked out the window and witnessed a

man or a woman being paraded down thestreet, displaying a full armor of tar and

feathers.

Can't remember it? Unsure of what the phrase means?

Chances are, you’ve only read aboutthis method of public shaming in 19th

century literature classes.

Tarring and feathering: a form of publichumiliation, used to enforce unofficial justice or

revenge. It was used in feudal Europe and itscolonies in the early modern period, as well as the

early American frontier, mostly as a type of mob vengeance.

definition

Tar and feathering may no longer bean acceptable cultural more, however,it happens all the time in the digital

world.

This method of extreme and angrycommentary happens everyday to

ordinary individuals online.

You can thank the century-oldpractice known as Mob Mentality.

why does thishappen?

From public lynchings to tar andfeathering, it’s easy to get swept up with

a crowd.

How did we gethere?

Passionate words are spoken.Excitement builds and turns

intoxicating.

But far too often, this excitement takesan angry turn and punishments aredoled how in far more harsher ways

than planned.

The internet is nodifferent.

Social media profiles and commentboards are littered with crass

expressions and harsh words aimed atinnocent individuals or organizations.

And while angry words dissipate inthe physical world, they find apermanent residence online.

This can affect individuals foryears.

Imagine looking for a job, applyingfor school, even dating.

When your online reputation istarnished, there are often long-

term financial, phycological, andemotional effects.

The question remains: If we’ve progressed in reality, why would

we tolerate an antiquated form of mobmentality online?

There are better ways.

We must bringawareness to the topic.

We must strive to educateall users on the appropriate

form of engagement andcommunication online.

Teachers and parentsmust do their part to help

younger generations understand how harmful

this behavior can be.

And online moderators mustbe more diligent to flag andremove unfair comments.

Let’s take a step forward into progressand moderate our comments. Let’s thinkbefore we write. Let’s educate all userson the importance and the permanence

of our words.