Why Left-Leaning Individuals Block Those with Dissenting Views on Social Media

We don't block people simply because they disagree with us. It's only a subset of those who are wrong or behave unbecomingly. As a left-leaning individual, I can say there are plenty of people who disagree with me on platforms like Quora, and I haven't blocked them.

Reasons for Blocking on Social Media

There are several reasons why left-leaning individuals might block others who have differing political views:

Lack of Facts or Decency

I've been blocked by right-leaning people multiple times because they couldn't handle the facts I posted. Conversely, I only block individuals who are rude or lack manners, not based on their political views. The block is not a result of a political difference but rather poor behavior.

Living in an Echo Chamber

Some left-leaning individuals are content living in an echo chamber where their viewpoints aren't challenged. They feel a superiority that they can't see anything wrong with their beliefs. This creates a mindset of absolute certainty and an aversion to engaging with opposing views. Interestingly, even when faced with this argument, they often retort with labels like 'fascist' or 'good guy,' claiming their views are superior simply by virtue of their alignment with the left.

Unpleasant and Dogmatic Behavior

A significant portion of the people blocked are dogmatic and unpleasant. These individuals are difficult to engage with, monopolize conversations, and are not fun to spend time with. Keeping an open mind and being pleasant can save you from unnecessary interactions.

As a left-leaning individual, I estimate I block around a dozen people daily. About 49 percent are trolls, another 49 percent are Magamorons, and the remaining two are a mix of individuals who are mentally ill, religious extremists, or simply not enjoyable to converse with. Blocking and muting can be a never-ending task, much like painting the Forth Bridge, but it clears out the undergrowth and makes social media platforms more enjoyable.

Understanding Magamorons

Magamorons are particularly troublesome. Unlike individuals who simply disagree but offer pause for thought and insights, Magamorons are unarticulate, uncharitable, and incapable of independent thought. They eagerly and uncritically repeat whatever they're told, often without understanding. They're caught in a pattern of ill-directed hatred and can't form their own opinions or beliefs. This kind of behavior is not only frustrating but also disheartening, as it can signal a lack of future progress in a society.

Conclusion

Blocking on social media is a tool for maintaining a space where individuals can express ideas and engage in meaningful conversations. The key is to distinguish between those who are open to dialogue and those who are closed, rude, or unethical. Left-leaning individuals, like anyone else, want a platform where they can share their thoughts, but they also need to maintain a certain level of trust and respect in their online interactions.