Degraded State

A concept that involves conscious rejection of the basic responsibilities for managing tensions expected of humans in a society. The Degraded State is most clearly exemplified in Internet culture, and particularly Internet gamer culture, where LARPing, trolling, take downs, gotchas, impersonation, doxxing, harassment for sport and lulz, and a thirst for personal and reputational destruction of others are common behaviors aided by asymmetric anonymity and pseudonymity. Those who accept and embrace the Degraded State share the view that life is simply a game that lacks any deep, ultimate meaning.