Are we the bad guys, Slackers?
On this week's episode, I dive into the phenomenon of toxic fandom, exploring how Generation X shaped the passionate, sometimes divisive, fan cultures around Star Wars, wrestling, music, and even the DC vs. Marvel rivalry.
From gatekeeping in 1980s punk scenes to online harassment in modern fandoms, we examine Gen X’s role in setting early fan standards that can exclude newcomers. Anyone remember Usenet groups? Ever call someone a poser?
There is a direct correlation between how our own sense of nostalgia and the early internet amplified tribalism. I mean, how many Gen Xers claimed George Lucas "ruined" Star Wars?
Did Gen X spark toxic fandom, or is it a broader cultural issue? Can fandoms (and society) somehow become less toxic, or has that ship already sailed?
Let me know!
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