The problem with two way conversations on the Web

Seth Godin has been known to spread idea viruses in the past, however, there might be a cure for his latest virus before anyone is even infected. Clay Shirky seems to agree, but for different reasons.

Yes, it was questionable to put the 'manifestos' in .pdf format, although I could see how using a more formal file type would encourage publishing only more formal ideas. Yes, it was odd for the manifestos to not include comments and/or trackbacks when the very purpose of project is to encourage discussion (more on that in a sec). Finally, it's gonna be pretty hard to find (and change) anything that has such a generic project name.

So, what's the main problem with the Change This! Project? It's the fact that having a good discussion on the web is almost impossible. Sure, there are some sites that are built for discussions, but for the most part, comments suck. And here's why - the audience is stupid. But actually, it's not their fault (well, not completely).

The problem is due to the site's creators not being active enough in their own comment section. If, as a reader, I know my chances of hearing a response from the original poster are slim to none, then why bother investing any time in writing a well thought out comment? It's the equivalent of continuing to talk to someone on the phone after they've already hung up - you think you're getting somewhere only to realize that no one was listening. And I know this isn't a new idea, but that's what I think a lot of the web sites (this site included) have become - nothing but people shouting out to no one in particular...Whew, how's that for ending on a postive note!

See my comments about comments at the Wise Panda.

Comments

[Noah]

I'm listening.... :)

[Rummel]

Wow, ok, I just saw this post, and now feel slightly guilty.
I think they do a pretty decent job over at the www.dailykos.com. The original poster is often the one with the last words in the comments section. And the posts are, I think, mostly intelligent. Now, the antithesis is the Free Republic. And I'm not just saying this because I'm progressive. The neocons over at the Free Republic really do just spew bigotry and self gratifying garbage back and forth.

[adam]

I think the Daily Kos sets a good example by keeping the original poster involved. Otherwise there's potential for that whole black hole thing.

Oh, and Noah, hope you didn't take any offense to me linking to your site for the audience being stupid.

[Rummel]

I'm definitely not a blog guru. I'm sure the 'black hole' comment applies in general.