Online Arguments

The argument I wanted to focus on was the online claims on Tom Holland and his recent need for a break from the screen. There are many arguments happening on online platforms including Reddit, Twitter, and Facebook, because of his most recent movie role for the movie 'Crowded Room' where he plays a character with multiple personality disorder. 

I find if fairly rude that people online make so many assumptions about celebrities when the person themselves has not said anything to the public eye. People making assumptions online cause rude and disrespectful arguments and is not fair to those people, or the person they are speaking about. 

Tom Holland Announces ‘I’m Taking a Year Off’ Due to Brutal ‘Crowded Room’ Shoot: ‘The Show Did Break Me’

Concerns with Online Arguments:

Accountability- People posting anonymously online give them the ability to hide behind a screen which a lot of the time leads to aggressive, disrespectful behavior that would never otherwise happen. Not showing who you are can get dangerous, and there are no consequences because people will not have to face repercussions for their actions or in this case, their words.

Escalation- Talking to others online can quickly escalate into aggressive arguments where the focus changes from a constructive exchange of ideas and topics, to personally attacking another person. This often leads to dispersion and disaster instead of a resolution or mutual understanding.

Misinterpretation and Miscommunication- Online communication lacks a lot of things, which is why a lot of online conversations lead to misunderstanding and misinterpretation, this causes those things like personal attacks, aggression, and disrespect. Miscommunication can be caused by lack of facial expressions and tone. This causes conflicts and unnecessary arguments.

Five Rules for Online Arguments and Communication:

Respect- Always treat others with respect and kindness, regardless of opinions and beliefs. "Treat others like you want to be treated". 

Focus- Focusing discussions on the main topic of the argument rather than attacking the person you are talking to. Stay focused on the idea, and do not let things get out of control. Critiquing ideas is okay, as long as you do not find yourself critiquing the individual that you're talking to. Never personally insults or degrade others with your words or remarks.

Listen and Understand- Take the time to understand what the other person is saying, and take not of their perspective before you respond. 

Language- Use language that is constructive and promotes understanding. Avoid aggressive language. Be mindful of how your words might be perceived by the person you are talking to.

Agree to Disagree- Not all disagreements will be resolved through an online conversation and you must understand that this is okay. When a discussion gets to a certain point, learn to agree to disagree respectfully. It's okay to walk away from a conversation, especially instead of getting into an argument.

I chose to focus on these concerns and rules of online arguments because they are common issues and discussing how people should address these concerns can lead to better online interactions overall.