The Secret Cause of Flame Wars

[rpadula]

Well, I don't think it's so secret, but that's the article title...

According to recent research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, I've only a 50-50 chance of ascertaining the tone of any e-mail message. The study also shows that people think they've correctly interpreted the tone of e-mails they receive 90 percent of the time.


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Whole article is here on Wired.

Originally noted last week on Slashdot, where the comments can be particularly sarcastic (boy, is that an understatement).


-Rich

 

[wsuffa]

Well, I don't think it's so secret, but that's the article title...

According to recent research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, I've only a 50-50 chance of ascertaining the tone of any e-mail message. The study also shows that people think they've correctly interpreted the tone of e-mails they receive 90 percent of the time.


​

Whole article is here on Wired.

Originally noted last week on Slashdot, where the comments can be particularly sarcastic (boy, is that an understatement).


-Rich

Not at all surprising since something like 80% of all 'comunication' is non-verbal (tone of voice, facial expression). It's one reason why communications via email or forums is difficult, at best.

 

[Everskyward]

Some people project a completely different tone in e-mails than they do in person while other people seem to write in ways that are more representative of their actual personality. I've noticed this particularly at work.

That said, I don't think these misunderstandings cause flame wars nearly as much as people who post statements just looking for a reaction.

PS. I love the bunny with the pancake. Even read up on Oolong.