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New research suggests that internet trolls are sadists, albeit sub-clinical levels of sadism; not the more extreme forms that are seen in serial killers and criminals.
Buckels [one of the authors] said that the anonymity of the Internet can no doubt provide a dark corner from which to strike. For some users, trolling may also offer the same outlet as do violent video games or movies, providing a dose of vicarious sadism as an alternative to the actual thing.
"Our research suggests that trolls also want to be mean to people in real life," Buckels said. "Perhaps trolling online allows them to satisfy their appetites for cruelty without it creeping into real life."
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Conquering Russia should be done steppe by steppe.
(Score: 2) by Tork on Friday April 11 2014, @11:02PM
Alternatively I'd suggest that at least some trolls are just out to make life a little harder for people who thoughtlessly spout what they consider non-sense. Take a look at any topic where there's a harsh polarization of the contributers and you'll find plenty of people trying to lure their enemies into a trap. How many times have you seen the phrase: "Macs don't get viruses, har har!" Why do they say that? To be cruel to a certain group of people, or to make them think twice about getting them to say it again?
Perhaps the issue here is that there's a difference between a bully and a troll.
Slashdolt Logic: "25 year old jokes about sharks and lasers are +5, Funny." 💩