it’s my interpretation of an annoying, terminally online kid.
I think this might be the issue? A similar stereotype of terminally online people is constantly used as an ableist strawman by reactionaries. A layman looking at this meme wouldn’t be able to differentiate how it’s humor would be any different from an ancient 2012 meme making fun of furries.
I don’t think you intended this, especially because it’s become it’s own stereotype people reproduce unconsciously, but the criticism is valid as a general criticism of meme culture in general.
I do feel like the top level comment wasn’t even thinking from this perspective and may just be trying to stir up shit but obviously I can’t prove that. I apologize if that is wrong.
You do have a point, although I haven’t been around the internet that long so I haven’t seen any of those. However, what else would a terminally online guy be portrayed? This isn’t intended as a “gotcha”, I’m just curious what alternatives there are.
There is a computer in the room, the room looks relatively normal, but in front of it there is a blue glow in the shape of a person on one side, but on the other side not facing the screen there is nothing, indicating that his only existence is online, but contributions in the real world are null.
You’re right, it’s probably a difficulty in seeing how the view could be harmful because thats not how the artist intended the meaning to be carried out. It might be seen as problematic by some, but it seems to be an extremely thin tightrope with no clear answer.
I think this might be the issue? A similar stereotype of terminally online people is constantly used as an ableist strawman by reactionaries. A layman looking at this meme wouldn’t be able to differentiate how it’s humor would be any different from an ancient 2012 meme making fun of furries.
I don’t think you intended this, especially because it’s become it’s own stereotype people reproduce unconsciously, but the criticism is valid as a general criticism of meme culture in general.
I do feel like the top level comment wasn’t even thinking from this perspective and may just be trying to stir up shit but obviously I can’t prove that. I apologize if that is wrong.
You do have a point, although I haven’t been around the internet that long so I haven’t seen any of those. However, what else would a terminally online guy be portrayed? This isn’t intended as a “gotcha”, I’m just curious what alternatives there are.
There is a computer in the room, the room looks relatively normal, but in front of it there is a blue glow in the shape of a person on one side, but on the other side not facing the screen there is nothing, indicating that his only existence is online, but contributions in the real world are null.
That’s extremely sad and very philosophical. Doesn’t feel like that would really be humorous.
But that would be a very good depiction and a really good drawing idea!
You’re right, it’s probably a difficulty in seeing how the view could be harmful because thats not how the artist intended the meaning to be carried out. It might be seen as problematic by some, but it seems to be an extremely thin tightrope with no clear answer.
Artistic disagreements are always a hot button.