This is just one form of “information ochlocracy” in all forms of media. Ochlocracy is the evil cousin of democracy - basically mob rule. Because the business

This is just one form of “information ochlocracy” in all forms of media. Ochlocracy is the evil cousin of democracy - basically mob rule. Because the business model of media (old or new) requires a large audience, the least common denominator inexorably pushes content towards the basest human emotions and targets the least educated (as they are the vast majority of people). This is how we end up with the History channel focusing on Nazis and Ancient Aliens and Bravo transforming from a channel focused on the arts such as Opera, to broadcasting Real Housewives non stop. In terms of social media, it’s the same incentives. Those that post or share the most inflammatory content get more reactions and engagement. Even cat pics produce the same level of emotion, except on the opposite end of the spectrum. What’s not rewarded is intelligent discourse. See also “eternal September”. A nice new trend is the small newsletter subscription model, where those that most appreciate in-depth, detailed thought are able to support it directly. But this model is simply a boutique solution, and it won’t result in another Time Warner.