Probing the Hive Mind

Goner | MetaFilter

The Hive Mind, shown here at Metafilter, has made me think about the simultaneous fragmentation and connection that occurs on forums. As conversations typically happen on Metafilter, responses are short, cutting or witty, and make some sort of judgment, either evaluating the post, or commenting on an aspect of the story that is interesting to them. Other responses are generated from the comments themselves, and frequently result in personal attacks and flame wars. Users are rewarded for interesting comments, by way of responses and the opportunity to respond again.

Concise comments are better, and appreciated by this community, although longer comments are permitted if necessary to convey the idea.

Users are in competition for attention. Sarcasm is used as a tool to reveal more with fewer words. It reveals a judgment, with which people can either agree or disagree with. If you think it's funny, you think it's true. You make a connection to this person, although it's only just a handle. At the same time, you define yourself a little more, and draw divisions from those who would disagree.