Fanjustifying

Fanjustifying is a phenomenon in which fans of a particular work or franchise attempt to rationalize or downplay negative aspects of the creation, often in order to maintain a positive emotional investment. This behavior can manifest in various ways, including selectively focusing on positive elements, ignoring or dismissing criticisms, or even inventing justifications for problematic content.

Fanjustifying often arises from a strong emotional connection to the work, which can lead fans to engage in motivated cognition. This means that fans may be inclined to interpret information in a way that confirms their pre-existing biases and opinions. In some cases, fanjustifying can be driven by a desire to defend the creator or intellectual property, rather than any genuine engagement with the work itself.

The rise of fan communities and online discourse has made fanjustifying more visible and widespread. Online forums, social media, and dedicated fan sites often provide fertile ground for fans to discuss and debate their favorite creations. While fanjustifying can be a natural consequence of passionate fandom, it can also be problematic when it leads fans to overlook or dismiss valid criticisms of the work.

Fanjustifying can take many forms, including rationalizing plot holes, ignoring problematic social commentary, or making excuses for poorly executed creative decisions. It can also manifest in a more micro level, where fans attribute good intentions to a creator or justify creative choices as "bold" or "edgy." In some cases, fanjustifying can lead to a loss of objectivity, where fans become overly invested in defending their interpretation of the work, rather than engaging with the work on its own terms.