The Harassment Experience on Quora Compared to Twitter: An Analysis
According to a recent study by Amnesty International, women, especially those of color, face widespread harassment on Twitter. This raises an important question: Do women on Quora also experience harassment based on gender or race?
The Harassment Climate on Social Media
Twitter, often described as an 'absolute cesspool,' thrives on the absence of active moderation and the allowance of certain speech. Without strict enforcement, the platform often becomes a haven for negativity and hostility. Constructive conversations, those that require listening and the willingness to be wrong, are rarely seen as a result of the toxic environment.
When people are free to say whatever they want, it typically results in the promotion of ignorance and destruction rather than meaningful dialogue. The aim becomes to smear rather than to learn, to befoul rather than to exchange ideas.
The Quora Experience: A Haven Amidst the Chaos
I have been fortunate enough to have experienced a less hostile environment on Quora compared to many other platforms. Since joining in 2014, I have not faced the same level of harassment that many writers on these topics have encountered on other sites.
While there have been instances of harassment, the frequency and severity are significantly lower. Unlike on Twitter, no one has ever threatened violence or physical harm. More often than not, people treat me with respect, acknowledging the possibility that I might have differing opinions or valid points to make. I have been fortunate to have such a supportive and inclusive community which fosters a constructive conversation.
The Influence of Race and Academic Training
My experience of not encountering more harassment is likely influenced by my race (white) and my academic background. As a result of my training, my speech is moderated, and I am more likely to avoid controversial phrasing and emotional language.
Academic workshops have taught me to critically evaluate my writing, be aware of biases, and use phrasings that anticipate audience concerns. Additionally, I have been trained to avoid being overly emotional, which makes my writing less likely to trigger adverse reactions from readers.
The Voice of Writers of Color on Quora
However, it is essential to recognize that for writers of color on Quora who tackle sensitive topics such as feminism and social issues, the harassment experience is markedly different. These individuals often face a higher frequency and intensity of harassment compared to me, despite their academic training and moderation.
For instance, racial and gendered attacks are more frequent among individuals of color, further highlighting the need for targeted measures to curb such behavior. The support network and community on Quora may provide a degree of protection, but the underlying issues must be addressed to ensure a safe space for all writers.
The Call for Action: A Safeguarded Online Space
The experiences of writers on Quora serve as a testament to the importance of community engagement and active moderation. By fostering a culture of respect and understanding, Quora can continue to be a valuable platform for discussions on sensitive topics.
It is crucial to recognize and address the unique challenges faced by marginalized voices online. Through increased awareness, targeted measures, and a commitment to community support, we can create a more inclusive and safe online environment for all.