Mute button references
Why is this suddenly a thing?
I’ve seen more mute button references this year since the election, than I’ve ever noticed in my entire commenting life up until now. Is that because mute buttons are new and just being rolled out? Or did they always exist but just having a glow up these days? More important, are accounts that reference the mute button being authentic or not? I’ve never ever felt the need to use one or felt unable to control what comments I read and when.
-Are real people using it more often?
- Does it increase engagement by allowing more time and effort with compatible and exploratory interactions
-Or reduce engagement by enhancing echo effect and dead internet feel
-Do others feel controlled by comments or required to participate
-Who benefits from the use of the mute button
-Is promotion of the mute button inauthentic behavior designed to reduce engagement to push down infrastructure cost for providers
- Does it improve the quality of civic debate? Is that a measurable value?