Restzement

Restzement is a controversial internet phenomenon that originated in the mid-2010s. It refers to a circumstance where a group of people collectively pretend to ignore or downplay a real or perceived issue, often in a social media context. This phenomenon typically involves the selective suppression or hiding of relevant information to maintain a perceived status quo or avoid confrontation.

Restzement often occurs when individuals or groups disagree or have a differing opinion on a subject. Rather than engaging in a constructive and respectful discussion, participants may resort to ignoring the disagreement altogether, thus avoiding any potential conflict or tension. This behavior can lead to a collective avoidance of addressing the issue, preventing it from being resolved or discussed in a meaningful way.

Participants in a restzement situation might use various tactics to hide the issue or oneself from discussion. These can include deleting or hiding posts related to the subject, changing subject matter, or evading direct questions or inquiries. The outcome of a restzement can be a prolongation of the issue, erosion of trust among the community, and a decrease in willingness to engage in open and honest discussion.

Some argue that restzement can be an expression of collective fear or discontent rather than a genuine desire to avoid confrontation. By suppressing or ignoring a particular issue, individuals may be signaling their discomfort or disagreement without explicitly stating their views. Supporters of restzement argue that it allows for temporary respite or social cohesion, however, detractors claim that it trivializes the impact of individual dissent and undermines social bonds.