What Is Outrage Porn?

The definition of outrage porn is simple. “It refers to any type of media that is designed to evoke outrage for the purpose getting traffic or attention online.” (source) But trying to decide whether or not that article you are writing, reading, or sharing is outrage porn is a bit more difficult. So here are a few questions to ask. It’s a bit like Justice Stewart’s “I know it when I see it” comment on pornography and obscenity. But I think we can perhaps ask a few questions of our media to help us determine this.

But I would say first, if you are really angry and bothered and all worked up not only will you probably not consider these questions, but even if you did they would be skewed. So remember this, if you are really angry about something take a breather. Go ahead and write that piece, or bookmark it, or queue it up to send. But don’t actually do it until you’ve cooled down. If it’s true when you’re hot and mad then it’s true when you’re cool and calm.

Questions to ask:

1. What is the purpose of this article? Why do I want to share it? Is it for traffic? Is it to evoke anger? If it isn’t to build up and edify (Ephesians 4:29) then it’s probably just unwholesome talk.
2. Does this accurately state the other person’s position? Would a fair-minded person say this accurately represented their belief? If it doesn’t then it’s likely outrage porn.
3. Does the article use extreme words? Any marriage counselor will tell you to avoid those extreme words like “always” and “never”. Does the article paint the other side in the best possible light or the worst possible light?
4. Does it offer a solution? There are times when we see something but do not have a legitimate solution, so it doesn’t have to be outrage porn just because it doesn’t outline a plan. But if it’s not pointing towards hope and written in a hopeful tone, it likely doesn’t pass the Philippians 4:8 test.
5. Would you say it to their face? If you’d say it different to their face than you would behind a keyboard that should be a telling sign.
6. Does this strengthen the cause of the gospel? Am I attaching the gospel to something which isn’t a key component of the gospel? If I don’t know for sure that something is true and I share it, then what happens to my witness when I’m found to be sharing untruths? Am I equating following Jesus with following a party, my preferences, or something else? Or am I stirring up and pursuing unity within the body of Christ?
7. What I want this to be the last thing I share? Would you want this to be something which was part of your funeral? I realize that by saying this a good amount of things we share wouldn’t fit the bill. I share stuff about the Royals that I wouldn’t much want to be the last thing people remember me by. But I’m attempting to make a larger point here. Do you want to be known as a peddler of gospel hope or of fear-mongering, criticism, and cynicism? I’ve decided for me, I want to be known as a guy who gives hope and encouragement and points to Jesus. I’m not sure I always accomplish this but asking these questions I’m convinced will move me more towards being more Christ-like.

So what if I can’t answer these questions in a positive way? Does it really matter that much if I occasionally engage in outrage porn or share outrage porn?

—

Photo source: here