The appeal to ridicule, also known as reductio ad ridiculum, is a rhetorical tactic where an argument or idea is mocked rather than being directly addressed. In the context of online communities, this approach can polarize discussions and alienate members who might feel targeted or invalidated. By turning serious debates into humor or sarcasm, the appeal to ridicule detracts from meaningful exchanges and creates an unwelcoming atmosphere for productive conversation.
For community managers, recognizing this behavior is essential for fostering a respectful environment. Moderators can mitigate its impact by setting clear guidelines and intervening when necessary to redirect discussions toward constructive dialogue.
In a forum about sustainability, one user proposes banning single-use plastics entirely. Another responds sarcastically, "Sure, let's just ban everything and live in caves!" This appeal to ridicule dismisses the idea without engaging with its merits or discussing alternatives. A moderator could step in and ask for a more thoughtful critique, steering the conversation back to a productive exchange.