The principle difference between online and offline actions and personas is because of the medium itself. The internet allows users through forums like blogs and social networking sites to express themselves in a place where they face no direct rebuttals or backlash, allowing them to more freely express their views. This freedom of expression can sometimes extend itself too far and cause users to go too far in their expressions and sometimes act more irrationally then honestly. The nature of the internet's environment allows for a desensitized and depersonalized expression of one's self.
Bloggers like Perez Hilton have faced many problems with the blogging medium's freedom of expression. Hilton is infamous for his unforgiving and critical opinions of celebrities. As his blog gained more and more notoriety his online attitude became more aggressive and unforgiving. Hilton is open about the harsh criticism he receives from the celebrities he bashes, usually brief scoldings for his insensitive musings on celebrity's images, weight, and appearance and work. In July 2009, Hilton was confronted by Will.i.am for his extremely harsh commentary on Will, and other members of the Black Eyed Peas leading to a physical altercation between Will's manager Liborio "Polo" Molina and Hilton where Polo gives Hilton a black eye. Although online attitude has some benefits in revealing honesty through a certain comfort attained with the online medium, it also has many drawbacks when the attitude reveals irrational and inconsiderate behavior.
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