Scout Moderation is based near Amherst, Massachusetts, birthplace of poet, Emily Dickinson. At Scout, we are committed to keeping the online conversation civil. We wonder, what would Emily Dickinson say about using the social network to hurt and bully? Knowing the power of words to hurt, she once wrote, “We bruise each other less in talking than in writing”.
Emily lived as a recluse for most of her adult life because of a mysterious disorder. It is speculated that she may have locked herself away from life because she suffered from PTSD or some kind of social anxiety. From her home in Amherst, Emily carried out her epistolary relationships and sent her poems as holiday notes or birthday cards. If she were alive today, she would most likely love the positive aspects of social networking; the ability to tweet a poem or post status updates on her Facebook page.
Cyber bullies can ruin your social media project with hurtful words. In the 1924 edition of The Complete Poems of Emily Dickinson, Emily’s verse could be applied to the dangers of cyber bullying:
THERE is a word
Which bears a sword
Can pierce an armed man.
It hurls its barbed syllables,—
Scout Moderation will watch your social network for you so you don’t expose your users to words, “which bear[s] a sword”. Your online community is a valuable asset and users prefer a presence that will guide discussions, deter cyber bullying or harassment. Scout’s online community managers will improve your users’ experience by:
- educating members
- encouraging participation
- keeping your site welcoming and safe
An investment in Scout Moderation is a valuable investment in your brand.