Note: This is a preview based on a draft of my next post. Full post coming Tuesday 9/30/2014.
On Apologies
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I READ SOME DISCUSSION ABOUT SOME #GAMERGATE OPPONENTS ALLEGEDLY SUGGESTING WE APOLOGIZE FOR HARASSMENT, AS A SIGN OF GOODWILL TO INITIATE DISCUSSIONS BETWEEN BOTH SIDES
This is absolutely preposterous and absurd. First, #GamerGate is not a centralized group with a hierarchy or membership, so it is impossible for us to apologize. If a #GamerGate supporter gave an apology, that person would only be speaking for him/herself and his/her supporters, not #GamerGate. Since rampant censorship of pro-#GamerGate discussion is widespread, the opposition cannot claim they are ignorant of what we represent. We organically support common, core ideals as video game consumers. These ideals are simple; straightforward; are well-documented on pro-#GamerGate blogs and articles (via Google), Twitter, YouTube, 8chan, masterchan, Escapist, etc.; and are consistent across the movement…
…realize this is personal for them. emotions are informing their actions, since they defy rational business decisions. as such, we must understand the level of emotional involvement many of them have. while their unchallenged positions and social agenda enables them to act and feel justified, keep in mind for them this a moral battle. Yes, protecting their livelihoods and salvaging their reputations are a large part of it, but these are secondary. For many of them, this is truly a battle of good versus evil, in which they must vindicate and seek justice for a well-respected figure within their community whom they feel has been wronged by angry mob. I know this seems like hyperbole, but you must understand what this means to them in order to understand why it is very frustrating to have a logical debate. Yes, many are being obtuse and childish, and many truly take extreme political correctness or feminist views. But I honestly believe it’s more about protecting someone whom they love and admire within their industry.
Or perhaps, a few leaders within the indie games industry who have strong social views have been successfully manipulated into giving undue influence and power to certain people. This group then abused this influence and power to perpetuate and enforce a culture within their industry which rewards those who support their personal ideologies, and punishes those who dissent. Often, even silence is considered dissent, and those within the community are forced to choose a side. Thus, it could well be that the vocal minority at the top of this industry enforced the idea that they must protect certain people, and most fell in line due to complacency or fear of losing opportunities to work. Remember, some people have families to feed and mortgages to pay, and this ideological battle is something they cannot afford to fight at the moment….
Skynet Watch 