Simple question. Options

[*mona lisa*]

Or perhaps it isn't. I see this happening often here. Say there's Person A, someone you like, and then there's Person B, someone you do not like. They both post something very true and honest. Why are your reactions to each person completely different? Isn't the content of the post more significant?

[HakunaMatata]

I am constantly looking at the username (actually, more like avatar) before I read the post, which is absolutely terrible of me. Every time I do it, there's a little Homer Simpson in my head going "D'oh!"

And actually, unlike Rebecca, I've found that smilies have a pretty major effect on posts. I mean, they don't completely turn around statements, but they somehow make them more....real? I've pretty frigging bad at interpreting on-the-fence posts, and usually a smiley will confirm my suspicions so the posts goes one way or the other.

Of course the content of the post matters most, but we all develop certain biases. It happens irl, and it happens here; it's definitely not something I'm proud of.

[*Duchess of Dork*]

And actually, unlike Rebecca, I've found that smilies have a pretty major effect on posts. I mean, they don't completely turn around statements, but they somehow make them more....real? I've pretty frigging bad at interpreting on-the-fence posts, and usually a smiley will confirm my suspicions so the posts goes one way or the other.

That's the thing though, Kaycee. I can't help but feel/think that a smilie can also be used to disguise truth.

It's sort of a get-out-of-jail-free-card when saying something that would otherwise be insulting and what not. (At least, it can be and I've seen them used as such)