Paul's presentation

Paul's presentation was on the Something Awful Forum.

The forum has a very large user base and a very strict administration coupled with user fees helps to keep the incidents of users abusing the forum low. The site has a one off fee for foreign access. Guests can freely view most of the content without being able to contribute, they are also subjected to more advertising. The something Awful forum raises a large revenue from members paying for priveleges and customisations such as Avatars costing $5.

The content, like most forums is divided into threads on a huge range of topics. And while the admin is heavy handed in suspending users that do not abide by the forums code of conduct the site has several threads where it is acceptable to flame other users and other abusive behaviour. The threads have a focus on technology, specifically technology and games, and also general conversation and topical issues from firearms to drugs and religion.

The members of the forums are often referred to as Goons. This stems from the forums power to influence other sites by sending members to comment on them, eg. Blogs, Myspace, other forums etc. eg. Sending goons out after someone.


The members of the forums are often referred to as Goons. This stems from the forums power to influence other sites by sending members to comment on them, eg. Blogs, Myspace, other forums etc. eg. Sending goons out after someone.