Researchers have shown that
with little more than text and images, online communities develop sophisticated
norms that can guide thousands of members. Highly specific norms standardize
attributes such as message length and response times, message headers, and even
the proper way to welcome new members. The presence of these norms, however, is
often insufficient to govern an online community. Studies into practices such
as flaming and the dissolution of online communities have shown that it can
lead to increased anti-social behavior, such that correcting violations of
norms can account for up to 15% of messages in some online communities. In some
cases, harmful messages have even overwhelmed and shut down online discussions.
