I’m not a big fan of popcorn, but I love Cracker Jacks. Popcorn and peanuts, smothered in caramel? Yes please. As much as I love Cracker Jacks, though, I was never a big fan of the prize inside. It didn’t bother me, per se, but it didn’t turn me on either.
Who are the Cracker Jack bloggers (and podcasters)? They are the people who establish a name for themselves on one topic, and then feel that entitles them to spout off about something totally unrelated and expect their audience to care – and stick around to read / listen. The PR professional who feels the need to include a post espousing their view that creation should be taught in schools, or the social media podcaster who thinks his knowledge of Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIN means he should also share his views on global warming.
Until recently, these people didn’t bother me. They were the Cracker Jacks – throwing in a little ‘prize’ from time to time. Most of the time, these little nuggets are easy to ignore. However, more and more people are turning into Cracker Jacks – and instead of an occasional prize, I’m getting deluged with vitriolic, snide and pompous remarks about various topics.
Don’t think I’m only talking about one side of an argument either.
Look at the US Presidential race, for instance. Conservatives may think Obama has a messiah complex, may despise his socialist policies, and may not trust his lack of experience. Liberals may claim McCain wants to pillage natural resources for cheap energy and fear he’ll appoint judges that will overturn Roe v. Wade. I get it, but if you’re giving me a podcast or blog post on macro-economic theory (which I enjoy), please refrain from throwing a disrespectful jab at ‘Barry’ or making fun of old-man McCain. If you feel so strongly about the subject, start a new blog, but don’t soil your reputation in my eyes, as a thought leader, by turning into a political hack.
Why is this bugging me so much?
I’m not a big fan of popcorn, but I love Cracker Jacks. Popcorn and peanuts, smothered in caramel? Yes please. As much as I love Cracker Jacks, though, I was never a big fan of the prize inside. It didn’t bother me, per se, but it didn’t turn me on either.
Who are the Cracker Jack bloggers (and podcasters)? They are the people who establish a name for themselves on one topic, and then feel that entitles them to spout off about something totally unrelated and expect their audience to care – and stick around to read / listen. The PR professional who feels the need to include a post espousing their view that creation should be taught in schools, or the social media podcaster who thinks his knowledge of Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIN means he should also share his views on global warming.
Until recently, these people didn’t bother me. They were the Cracker Jacks – throwing in a little ‘prize’ from time to time. Most of the time, these little nuggets are easy to ignore. However, more and more people are turning into Cracker Jacks – and instead of an occasional prize, I’m getting deluged with vitriolic, snide and pompous remarks about various topics.
Don’t think I’m only talking about one side of an argument either.
Look at the US Presidential race, for instance. Conservatives may think Obama has a messiah complex, may despise his socialist policies, and may not trust his lack of experience. Liberals may claim McCain wants to pillage natural resources for cheap energy and fear he’ll appoint judges that will overturn Roe v. Wade. I get it, but if you’re giving me a podcast or blog post on macro-economic theory (which I enjoy), please refrain from throwing a disrespectful jab at ‘Barry’ or making fun of old-man McCain. If you feel so strongly about the subject, start a new blog, but don’t soil your reputation in my eyes, as a thought leader, by turning into a political hack.
Why is this bugging me so much?
