Australian breaker Rachael “Raygun” Gunn faced a wave of online trolling during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Social media platforms were flooded with viral videos, memes, and derogatory comments mocking Gunn’s unconventional style, leading to racist, sexist, and body-shaming attacks. Even after the event, anonymous critics continued to target Gunn’s appearance, talent, and identity. This incident highlights how high-profile events, social media design, and human psychology can reinforce each other to create a storm of online abuse.
The factors contributing to trolling are complex, but they also point towards potential solutions. One key issue is the design of social media platforms, with algorithms prioritizing engagement and virality. This can amplify and spread both positive and negative content, turning a few trolls into a mob. The algorithmic acceleration creates echo chambers where extreme views are normalized, silencing dissenting voices.
The relative anonymity of online spaces also plays a role, as people feel emboldened to say things they wouldn’t dare say in person. This “online disinhibition effect” lowers restraints and empathy, making trolling more likely. Additionally, some trolls engage in trolling as a form of dark leisure, deriving enjoyment from causing pain and humiliation.
Meme culture and virality are also significant factors in online trolling. Trolls weaponize memes, creating satirical or derogatory images that quickly spread and become embedded in the cultural consciousness. In Gunn’s case, trolls targeted her dress and mannerisms, turning them into caricatures and intensifying the personal nature of the attacks.
To combat trolling, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Technological solutions include improved moderation tools and strengthened user reporting and blocking features. However, these tools can struggle with context and false positives/negatives. Behavior change is also critical, with psychological support services for those targeted by online abuse and educational campaigns to raise awareness and promote digital literacy. Engaging bystanders to call out harmful behavior and implementing regulatory measures to discourage online harassment are also important steps.
Implementing these changes is challenging, but they can help keep trolls away from engaging in toxic behavior. However, there are limitations to these solutions, such as reaching all users through educational campaigns and enforcing regulations consistently across jurisdictions. To combat trolling effectively, tech companies, governments, and internet users must collaborate to create safer online environments. This includes developing more sophisticated AI moderation tools, fostering cross-platform cooperation, and promoting a culture of accountability and respect online.
Gunn’s experience highlights the urgent need for better methods to combat toxic online behavior on a global scale.
