These nasty and sometimes pointless comments can build up and potentially ruin the intent or legitimacy of the original post. We're often told to ignore the negative feedback that may come from others, and some people even suggest that there should be an option to close a comments section altogether.
However, I think that regardless of the comments that are made, a comment section adds value to a blog. It creates a conversation (or an opportunity for a conversation) between the author and the reader. The poster can make their argument, and the option to comment leaves the reader with a chance to refute, critique, or even add to the claims that the poster made.
Whenever I read a blog that has left me curious for more information or for a different viewpoint, I immediately scroll down to see if there are any comments. Even though I often have to sift through the ignorant responses and the spam messages promising me a new job, the comment section rarely ever fails to provide me with further insight on the topic. Sometimes it even proves to be pretty entertaining.
SocialMedia Today agrees with me on keeping the convo open, and goes further to discuss the importance of comments for brands. It suggests controlling the offensive remarks through "outside moderators" and making sure to engage on social media to continue a conversation.
Even if the comment section does not actually start a conversation between the reader and the poster, I think that it is important that a comment section exists. It creates a more inviting and open environment within a blog, which, to me, is one of the coolest parts of blogs in the first place. They're not a news article or definite information source. They give readers an individual's personal opinions and thoughts on real topics and events. Their subjective nature is furthered through their supplemental comments and makes them more interesting than a typical news article online.
Although they may sometimes be pointless, negative, or just downright mean, comments should not be eliminated from blogs and online posts. Sometimes we must ignore the hurtful commentary to have the opportunity to benefit from the valuable outlooks of readers. Perhaps tools will be created that eliminate comments of spam or irrelevance and sort the good comments from the bad. But until then, we just need to learn to suck it up and see the potential value that readers can add to any post.
(Feel free to add your own comments below)
As someone who had to deal with trolls and spam throughout my newspaper career, I agree with you. As much as some can be annoying and irritating, they add value.
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