But we are a marvelous subject for anyone studying group dynamics. Not mention
good for a few laughs.
Carl Clifford
> On 14 Jul 2014, at 19:44, Laurie Knight <> wrote:
>
> G’day
>
> Speaking as an online researcher of Australian birdwatchers, the Yellow
> Bittern threads provide a useful example of social group dynamics and a
> reminder of how things can blow up (bushfire metaphors are quite appropriate
> for this subject).
>
> The first thing is that emotive language and finger pointing create a fuel
> load that is easily sparked into a blamestorm. Naming and shaming has a
> righteous feel to it, but it has to be accurate and measured. It can easily
> develop into a lynch mob mentality and result in law suits.
>
> The second this is that sweeping statements tend to confuse the situation and
> make things worse [throw away lines have a tendency to blow up in people’s
> faces].
>
> In the case of the Yellow Bittern we had "Due to the selfish and careless
> actions of these few anyone wishing to view this bird has now had that
> privilege denied. …. Birders are now asked to refrain from visiting this
> site.”
>
> The identification of the irresponsible birders as photographers exposed a
> fault line and the claim that people would not be able to see the bird set it
> off. While the post gave the impression that birders were supposed to
> refrain from visiting the site, the reality was that birders shouldn’t stray
> onto the golf course. Being a public place, the Wallaroo Ct pond was never
> off limits. Due to the urgency of a rare chance to see a mega, people got
> worked up. Feeling they were being picked on, birders with cameras got their
> backs up ...
>
> The initial reactions of people to a problematic post can determine whether
> things are sorted out amicably or it blows up. Beware of making quick
> judgements and strong assertions. Above all, think twice before adding to
> the fuel load or creating a strong wind current.
>
> Regards, Laurie.
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