I came across this article recently, about how the general tone of the internet is changing - from "fire-breathing, semi-literate personal attacks" to an "all-out love fest."
The part that I thought was most interesting was about how sites like facebook and tumblr have "like" buttons, but no similar negative option. It's literally easier to click a link and be nice, than it is to type out something mean.
It's more than that, though - I think the increasing lack of anonymity has a lot to do with it, and there's also the quest for popularity.
It's an interesting read, check it out: My Town of Kind!
A pretty "touchy-feelie" article, but the trend is well-researched. Thanks for the information.
Posted by: Jerry Tilbor | March 03, 2010 at 12:47 PM