I read an article last week about how the Russian Government wants to ban bad language online. The heading caught my eye because it’s something that bugs me.

I immediately unfollow people who swear on Twitter. If I am researching accounts which I may follow and I see bad language, I won’t follow them. 

One of the supporters of the Russian cause, Sergei Smirnov, associate professor at the Moscow Regional Bar Association, stated in the article “If we do not use foul language in real life, then why do we use it on the internet?” Thing is, from my experience, people who consistently use foul language in real life do use it on the internet. Maybe it’s being done to shock, or even provoke a reaction. There are better ways.

Now, I’m not a total goodie twoshoes. I don’t mind reading the odd lower level bad word on the rare occasion. I’ve even been known to use them verbally on occasion!  I don’t even mind hearing the bad ones on really deserved occasions. And there are times that warrant it.  Let’s face it, sometimes some flippin thing can really tree you off! It’s the f words that really get me going.  But I don’t think any occasion warrants having to read it in social media or on the internet.

Although… freedom of the press and all of that. If the writer wants to be associated with bad language, it is their prerogative.  I just won’t read it or subscribe to any social media profiles that use it.

Here’s an article from an Australian publication about on the spot fines for swearing!

What about you, what do you think?

Follow Aisling Foley Marketing on Twitter for more tips or subscribe to the newsletter in the “Subscribe” box below.

Originally posted 7 Aug 2013.

 Image courtesy of Australian article.