I’ve been sharing my thoughts online since the early days of dial-up internet, yet certain behaviors still leave me scratching my head. One of the most perplexing? Commenting on an article without actually taking the time to read it.
Seriously, folks. This should be common sense. While it’s easy to glance at a headline and jump to conclusions, I urge you to resist that urge.
Not too long ago, I penned a piece titled “What’s Challenging About Covering Up to Breastfeed?” Immediately, a flurry of frustrated breastfeeding advocates charged into the comments on social media, only to be called out by others who pointed out that the article was a comprehensive defense of breastfeeding in public.
Public shaming isn’t something I condone. However, if you choose to voice an opinion on something you haven’t read, you might find yourself in a humiliating position. Writers invest significant time and effort into their work. We conduct research, carefully select our words, and consider our readers as we write. The very least you can do is read the article before sharing your thoughts.
If after reading it you still disagree? That’s perfectly fine! Sharing dissenting views can lead to meaningful discussions, and many writers appreciate diverse opinions (as long as they are presented respectfully). We often check our article comments, knowing there will be disagreements. But if you’re going to engage, make sure you actually understand the content. It’s disrespectful to comment without reading, and it can make you look uninformed.
I once encountered a reader who said, “I haven’t read the article, but…” before launching into a lengthy critique. Unsurprisingly, most of her points were already addressed in the article, which she would have known had she taken the time to read it. I admit, I responded a bit snarkily with, “I haven’t read your comment, but here’s why it’s wrong…” (I try to keep it civil, but some comments invite a sharper response.)
Even worse than commenting without reading? Sharing content without reading it. A recent incident involved a government newsletter that shared an article about a budget proposal without understanding its content. The title suggested support, but the article was actually a biting satire. It’s clear that the person who shared it didn’t read beyond the headline.
So, please, for the sake of online civility, refrain from commenting, sharing, or forming opinions about articles without fully engaging with the material. Read every word, including any linked references, before questioning the author’s points or asking for sources.
And while we’re on this topic, let’s all embrace basic grammar and spelling rules. Let’s also avoid derogatory terms that end in “tard.”
If you’ve made it this far, thank you for actually reading the entire post before commenting. You’re the kind of readers I appreciate. High five!
For more insights related to home insemination and pregnancy, check out resources like Make a Mom’s Impregnator at Home Insemination Kit, Kindbody’s Blog, and Intracervical Insemination’s Causes.
Summary
It’s essential to read articles in their entirety before commenting or sharing your opinions. Jumping to conclusions based on headlines can lead to misunderstandings and embarrassment. Engaging with the content respectfully fosters better discussions and shows appreciation for the writer’s effort.