PalatinoSince no one has mentioned it, let me offer this reference regarding flaming published WAY BACK in the dark ages! They argue a number of things, including that there is no good definition, that flaming is normative rather than medium-caused, and that flaming is probably no more common online than off but that people think it is because it is more _visible_ online than off (and they offer a number of compelling reasons this is so). I haven't seen a better piece on the topic than this one... Lea, M., O'Shea, T., Fung, P., & Spears, R. (1992). 'Flaming' in computer-mediated communication: observations, explanations, implications. In M. Lea (Ed.), Contexts of computer-mediated communication, (pp. 89-112). London: Harvester-Wheatsheaf. The best definition I have found so far is Walther et al. (1994) who, in a meta-analysis, defined flaming operationally as name calling, swearing, insults, impolite statements, threats and put-downs, crude flirtations of a demeaning or sexually explicit nature, and attacks on groups or individuals TimesWalther, J. B., Anderson, J. F., & Park, D. (1994). Interpersonal effects in computer-mediated interaction: A meta-analysis of social and anti-social communication. Communication research, 21, 460-487. I've always wanted to see a comparative analysis of flaming online vs. behind the wheel of a car. Talk about a medium that causes anonymity and hostility! I'll take computers over cars any day! Nancy _________________________________________________________ Nancy Baym nbaym@ku.edu http://www.ku.edu/home/nbaym Communication Studies, University of Kansas 102 Bailey, 1440 Jayhawk Blvd., Lawrence, KS 66045, USA Association of Internet Researchers: http://aoir.org