The Gray Area with Sean Illing The value of being a "hater"
Feb 13, 2023
In this engaging conversation, Justin Charity, a senior writer at The Ringer and cultural critic, discusses the complex nature of being labeled a "hater" online. He and guest host Rebecca Jennings delve into the blurred lines between criticism and negativity in the age of social media. They unpack the implications of backlash against critics, the rise of performative positivity, and how the phrase "let people enjoy things" has morphed into a shield against dissent. Charity advocates for a space where constructive criticism and diverse perspectives can thrive.
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Fan Backlash Examples
- Taylor Swift fans reacted negatively to a Pitchfork 7.0 album rating.
- MrBeast faced criticism for his video about curing blindness, sparking debates about charity and exploitation.
Grade Inflation
- Due to fan pressure, anything less than a 7.0 rating is now often perceived as a negative review.
- The modern dynamic involves backlash for reviews deemed insufficiently positive, not just negative ones.
Let People Enjoy Things
- The "let people enjoy things" meme, originating from a webcomic, is now used to shut down any criticism.
- This shuts down discussions around art like the MCU, creating an environment where negativity is seen as a crime.
