[Air-l] Re: Flame Wars

[Nancy Baym]

Since no one has mentioned it, let me offer this reference regarding 
flaming published WAY BACK in the dark ages! They argue a number of 
things, including that there is no good definition, that flaming is 
normative rather than medium-caused, and that flaming is probably no 
more common online than off but that people think it is because it is 
more _visible_ online than off (and they offer a number of compelling 
reasons this is so). I haven't seen a better piece on the topic than 
this one...

Lea, M., O'Shea, T., Fung, P., & Spears, R. (1992). 'Flaming' in 
computer-mediated communication: observations, explanations, 
implications. In M. Lea (Ed.), Contexts of computer-mediated 
communication, (pp. 89-112). London: Harvester-Wheatsheaf.


The best definition I have found so far is Walther et al. (1994) who, 
in a meta-analysis, defined flaming operationally as name calling, 
swearing, insults, impolite statements, threats and put-downs, crude 
flirtations of a demeaning or sexually explicit nature, and attacks 
on groups or individuals

Walther, J. B., Anderson, J. F., & Park, D. (1994). Interpersonal 
effects in computer-mediated interaction: A meta-analysis of social 
and anti-social communication. Communication research, 21, 460-487.

I've always wanted to see a comparative analysis of flaming online 
vs. behind the wheel of a car. Talk about a medium that causes 
anonymity and hostility! I'll take computers over cars any day!

Nancy

_________________________________________________________
Nancy Baym
nbaym at ku.edu
http://www.ku.edu/home/nbaym
Communication Studies, University of Kansas
102 Bailey, 1440 Jayhawk Blvd., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA
Association of Internet Researchers: http://aoir.org
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