The sunk costs fallacy refers to the psychological tendency to persist with investments of time, money, or effort in ventures that no longer serve their intended purpose, simply because of the resources already spent. In the context of online communities, this might involve continuing to invest in outdated technology, underperforming campaigns, or obsolete moderation methods because of their historical significance or past expenses.
Community managers often face the challenge of balancing legacy features and practices with the need to adapt to user demands. Recognizing sunk cost bias is crucial to allocating resources more effectively. Being flexible enough to abandon outdated projects or processes ensures that the community remains vibrant, engaging, and forward-thinking.
Imagine a community debate about the pros and cons of remote work. One user argues that "some people are more productive at home due to fewer distractions." Another responds with, "So you're saying everyone should work from home all the time, even if it harms collaboration?" This response distorts the original point, creating a straw man. A moderator could step in, asking for clarification and steering the conversation back to the original argument. Encouraging members to directly address points without distortion ensures healthier discussions.