You’re Not as Offensive As You Think You Are

“LOL you triggered?”

I’ve been studying Internet culture, and particularly offensive content on the Internet, for years. Although usually tied to political “debate” (I use that term loosely), the apparent increase in people being offended occurs across the board, as does the popularity of complaining about everyone’s sensitivity. Ironically, people seem offended that other people are offended, while other people seem pretty invested in making sure other people are offended, and then performing false outrage.

Part of the problem is that we can’t agree on what’s offensive. Statements like, “everyone is so offended by everything” (which amusingly include the speaker by definition) are meaningless because they fail to address whether or not the thing is actually offensive. It’s also a bit odd to complain about this when the vast majority of Americans definitely don’t want to outlaw saying offensive things. Even if they’re offended, most Americans take it in stride. Does it really matter, then, if people are offended?

It’s safe to say that those sharing the meme like the one below don’t even think that people should be bothered by offensive…