Nettenging

Nettenging is a term that emerged from early internet culture, particularly in Usenet groups. It refers to the act of intentionally posting a response that is perceived as argumentative, inflammatory, or off-topic, with the goal of provoking a strong emotional reaction from other users. The term itself is a portmanteau of "net" (referring to the internet) and "kettenging," which describes a boisterous or argumentative shout.

The motivations behind nettenging can vary. Some individuals may engage in it for amusement, seeking to disrupt discussions or elicit humorous outrage. Others might do it to draw attention to themselves or a particular viewpoint, even if that attention is negative. In some instances, nettenging can be a form of trolling, where the intent is to simply cause mischief and distress online.

Nettenging is generally discouraged within online communities as it detracts from productive conversation and can create a hostile environment. Many online platforms and communities have moderation policies in place to address and mitigate such behavior. Recognizing nettenging is an important aspect of online etiquette, allowing users to identify and respond to unproductive or disruptive posts appropriately, often by ignoring them or reporting them to moderators. The practice highlights the challenges of maintaining civility and order in decentralized online spaces.