Column Quote by William Safire
“When infuriated by an outrageous column, do not be suckered into responding with an abusive e-mail. Pundits so targeted thumb through these red-faced electronic missives with delight, saying 'Hah! Got to 'em.'”
About This Quote
Source Article: Opinion column on internet etiquette, 1998
Warns against replying to inflammatory emails with abuse, noting pundits enjoy such conflict
In simple terms: Avoid abusive replies to provocative messages; don’t feed the drama
Key Takeaway
Practice restraint and constructive response
Themes
digital civility
communication
ethics
Mood
cautious
thoughtful
Type
advice
ethical
When to use this quote
- email correspondence
- social media
- online forums
- professional environments
Key Concepts
Online behavior
emotional regulation
public discourse
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you defuse online hostility?
- What alternatives exist to confront harmful content?
A Different Perspective
Abuse may still spread despite restraint
