Photo courtesy of PCD Poses.

“Some wish to divide and conquer. It makes them feel superior. Others like to see discord and splintering for a sense of control, as they have little power over other aspects of their lives,” said one anonymous Second Life resident, when I asked them about their experiences with the power dynamics often found in groups. “High school tactics, play for power and popularity… because of the anonymity at the beginning. However, ultimately people that are out of control of their offline lives tend to lose it online as well.”

It’s all about control. 

That’s something many of us feel we are losing in our first lives as Covid, politics and financial insecurity sweep the planet. People come to Second Life for the fantasy, and to play, but the personalities behind the keyboards bring their issues with them, and it can wreak havoc in a group. Why do we break into factions and engage in aggressive behavior to demean others, as adults, in a 3D ‘chatroom’? I set out two weeks ago to find answers.

Stella

“One group (I am in) is a public chat hub where a smorgasbord of personalities gather,” 12 year SL veteran Stella Saxmundham told me. Stella has a strong personality and firm beliefs and was not shy when I approached her for this article. “It is a place for regulars as well as the newcomers, and even the occasional troll.”

Stella says that regular members of this group organize themed parties for holidays, as well as ‘Rez Day’ celebrations (SL equivalent of birthdays) for members. She’s also involved in a book discussion group that holds a weekly chat where they discuss what they are reading in ‘real life’.

“There is always time for ‘one more’ book after logging off SL, right?” she said comically. “ There doesn’t seem to be any drama at all (in that group)… just a love for books and fellowship.”

Another group in which she partakes is faith based.

“This one helps me balance out any stresses and issues I face in RL/SL. I am often happily surprised when I do engage,” she said, adding that especially during a pandemic “it is important for me to be with others who share my faith, but also those that might possibly be in need. Always try to help someone. You might be the only one who does!”

While power-plays over control have long been the most divisive influence on SL groups, mounting pressures in real life are super-charging them. Along with easy access to inflated egos comes the potential to create an unflinching divide, if left unchecked. That is anathema to community.

The Blarneystone Pub 

Photo courtesy of the SL Enquirer

“The clique fight. It split the group, offended people, and nearly brought down an old and famous SL club and sim – the Blarneystone Pub on the Dublin sim,” Stella recalled of a dispute in 2014 that started when a staff member at the pub formed her own clique and proceeded to divide the regular patrons. “She was considered a bully by many. Slowly and surely people got fed up, tempers flared, emotions were raw.”

A Second Life writer, and Dublin regular, Mony Markova posted a story in the SL Enquirer about the split, according to Stella that was a risky move for the writer, museum owner and (sometimes) shit-starter.

“She received kudos for it, as well as backlash. She earned a permanent ban in Dublin for her exposé,” Stella added. “As her friend, I was supportive of her article, and posted comments on her side. Most regulars felt the same way as I did – pushed out, diminished, and just downright unwelcome – in a place we once called home. People came out of the woodwork in support. I don’t think anyone expected the response it garnered.”

Comments in the SL Enquirer from frustrated patrons went on for weeks and months, Stella said.

~ Gina

To be continued.

Next: Trolls & Other Nuisances