A study in .... Fandoms

In today's world of internet obsessed individuals (Of which I admit, I am one), the whole concept of Fandoms seem to be more and more prominent  Before I go forward a definition - Fandom: a subcommunity of fans of particular shows/films/books etc. I will admit I openly obsess about my favorite shows/films/books as much as the next and I often chat with people who share my interest in particular fandoms on Twitter/Tumblr. I've made lots of amazing friends  because of fandoms and I've had amazing chats with lovely people because of common interests. But I've also seen my fair share of dramas/bitching/fighting between fandoms and their members which I do not understand and for that reason I usually steer clear of mass groups of fans (on Fan-sites and the sorts)

What I don't understand is hierarchy in fandoms. My understanding is that every fan is equal. Being a fan of something means you enjoy that something and want to part of a larger group of individuals that are enjoy similar things to you. I think it's very childlike to consider yourself in any way more of a fan then another. but the sad fact is, there are still people of all ages who don't seem to get the idea of equality. Maybe you find spoilers/leaks/exclusive content before everyone else, maybe you've seen it/them 6 trillion times more then everyone else or maybe you've met people involved with the franchise. Maybe you just have tonnes of social networking follows but still that does not make you in any way superior. News flash, no-one died and made you King/Queen just because you have the idea of yourself.

 It's not even hating something that I enjoy that upsets me. It's having the audacity to think that because you hate it, we all should. Wake up and smell the roses please, everyone's different. Evolution allows us all to have individuality which is something that perhaps some people need to read up on. You do not,under any circumstances have the right to tell someone what they should and should not like. As most people (and I stress most) are thought at childhood; if you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.

 If you're not a fan of a particular antiquity  you have no right to spend your time writing poison about anyone involved or further more fans. We are all our own people. Everyone has their own likes and dislikes. Just because someone doesn't like something like you do, doesn't mean you can be an outright bully to them. Have some consideration and learn to respect other people and their opinions.

Fandoms should be fun; a way of sharing interests, meeting people of similar interests and shaving a common love. Being a complete tyrant will only make you look like a complete imbecile. Have fun but be nice. And I quote High School Musical - "We're all in this together"


Órla xo
(P.S - Go Obama!)