Internet trolls.

[ilona]

I think every person who contributes to internet forums should be aware of them. You can read about them here:

http://members.aol.com/intwg/trolls.htm

[Navigator7]

I think people should develop skills to coexist with those who don't see things as they do:
http://www.answers.com/argument&r=67

What ilona is doing is suggesting there are trolls are amongst us when in fact she or he doesn't like what she is reading.

Very weak, ilona.

[sculptorsam]

Trolls do exist, and they can become a nuisance if fed, but it should not be automatically assumed that someone with a different opinion is a troll. It's good form to engage them, ask a relevant question without name-calling, and wait for the reply. If they consistantly refuse to engage in a meaningful argument, the dance of point and counterpoint, then they can be properly dismisses. It is proper then to assume they are not participating in good faith. At that point, it would be wise, though admittedly difficult, to avoid feeding the troll.

[ilona]

I have seen excellent websites destroyed by them.

I'd hate to see that happen here, this seems for the most part to be a nice group of people with a common interest.

[fused]

Sure many sites have trolls, but you may not have noticed that this site is carefully and expeditiously moderated/monitored. There is no rampant vulgar discourse, flaming or name calling allowed as a source of personal entertainment.

[ilona]

I'm glad to hear that, fused.

[Merlion]

I think troll as used here is a modern term born of the Internet age. My searches give me these meanings, "a newsgroup post that is deliberately incorrect, intended to provoke readers; or a person who makes such a post", and "As a verb, to post controversial or provocative messages in a deliberate attempt to provoke flames."

I suppose one of the good ways to deal with this is to ignore them. For them, their pleasure is to see the results of their provocations. the annoyance and even anger they generate. If the intention is clear, treat them as pariahs.

[ilona]

What ilona is doing is suggesting there are trolls are amongst us when in fact she or he doesn't like what she is reading.

Very weak, ilona.

Actually I didn't suggest that at all. Please explain why my supplying information I thought might be helpful to those who enjoy posting on a forum is weak.