Trolling. A History, A Monster, An Art

Trolling is an act conducted by people known simply as Trolls. These are people who dwell in the darkest recesses of the internet to attack unsuspecting internet users in hopes of causing controversy.

This chart explains the birth of a Troll

A question you might be asking is why would someone intentionally hurt people emotionally. The answer is simple. For the lulz. Laughing at the expense of others is the simplest answer as to why trolls exist. They often lurk on sites like (but not limited to) 4chan or 2chan. Anywhere where comments or opinions can be shared, there are likely trolls lurking.

There is no government for trolls, they work completely autonomously from any form of structure. They like it this way. Some do operate under a single alias known as Anonymous. Although there is no governing body there are certain rules that have appeared online.  Some of them include

Rule 6: Anonymous can be an uncaring, senseless monster

Rule 14: Do not argue with trolls – it means that they win

Probably the most infamous rule. Rule 34: There is porn of it. No Exceptions.

Rule 43 :The more beautiful and pure a thing is – the more satisfying it is to corrupt it.

While I don’t condone the senseless destruction of peoples beliefs or feelings, there is something to admire in the willingness not to except foolishness as a standard. While the motivation is corrupted, the basic idea is still there. Forcing people to back up what they say with either evidence or personal conviction. Leads to people feeling more confident in what they believe in. Therefore, they feel better about themselves.

And if you disagree with anything I’ve said. It means I’ve won. Trolling is an art.

Come get me