Why is everyone so mean on the internet?

Whether it's Twitter, Facebook, message boards or chat rooms, the Internet seems to be a magnet for nasty comments -- and few result in real-world consequences. But why are people so mean on the Internet? The root, it seems, may lie deep within the human psyche. read more

Most interpersonal interactions are moderated by basic norms of behavior, including consequences for "bad" behavior and rewards for "good" behavior. read more

Even back in the early days of the internet, online chat could very easily turn sour. "Discussions in these groups would have followed a similar pattern. People with shared interests come together but often they would disintegrate because the internet gives people the opportunity to say things that you wouldn't say face to face," said Mr Harte. read more