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Trolling is worse now, with AI. Better not to reply.

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Agreed. There are trolls all over Substack now. I’ve reported a couple of truly egregious ones but it’s like pissing into a hurricane(pardon my English here).

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SPW, my instinct regarding trolls and troublemakers, or people who express opinions contrary to my own, is to try to offer something to think about, even if it doesn't refute the author's allegations. A popular observer, Brian Tyler Cohen, often reminds us that every accusation is a revelation of the accuser's mindset. Sometimes I will offer a comment aimed at the "commentariat" here to ponder, instead of addressing the rogue poster's screed.

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I don’t disagree and I can scroll right on by as long as they don’t start with really egregious and abusive name calling; spewing unsubstantiated comments and persisting in their abuse throughout a thread. Those get reported.

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I've seen a few noxious posters. Some are intractable. They spoil the vibe, plus waste time.

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No, really, SPW - your English is quite good!

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It's 'so' hard to resist though Anne. I immediately and reflexively launched out at one today myself ... caught myself quick then went on.

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It's just a waste of valuable energy. We need all our energy at the moment.

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Perhaps more of us should start reporting these comments. Not only the message, but the actual wording needs review by the administrator.

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Good point. The actual wording.

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