I've heard a saying, two things you should never do on the Internet are argue or explain. It takes up a lot of mental energy and time to do it for no reward.

[–] Hammocks4All@lemmy.ml 25 points 1 month ago (2 children)

I think in many cases the people who explain things are doing a huge service. They’re silently appreciated by many. The true GOATs of the internet.

I’ve read so many great explanations on Reddit for things in math, science, literature, etc and I feel very grateful to the people who explained them.

[–] octopus_ink@lemmy.ml 5 points 1 month ago

Yes. The thing to remember is in many cases you aren't explaining for the person you are debating with or answering a question for. You are doing it for others who may read the conversation.

I've had things brought to light in online discussion change my mind or educate me many times. When I see someone claim these conversations are useless or a waste of time, I just think they are really setting weird criteria for what constitutes a waste of time.

Sure, sometimes I ain't got no time for that, but other times I do, and I figure the same is true for many others as well.

[–] Phoenicianpirate@lemm.ee 2 points 1 month ago

Askhistorians is king.

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