Buzz
“Just as individuals have the freedom to appreciate things, they are equally entitled to express their dislike,” notes cultural critic Kate Wagner in her Baffler piece titled ‘Don’t Let People Enjoy Things.’ Wagner, the mind behind the architectural critique site McMansion Hell, dismantles a popular yet flawed meme circulating online. This meme involves fans defending Game of Thrones and Marvel films against critics by simply posting a comic strip that reads, ‘Let people enjoy things,’ without addressing the actual critiques.
Her argument is clear and compelling, so there’s no need to repeat it. However, let’s highlight three key points about the etiquette of sharing criticism:
Avoid spoiling someone else’s enjoyment
Share your critiques in your own online space, and anyone who challenges you should come prepared with a solid argument. Publish it on your blog, Instagram, Twitter, or any platform you choose—your space, your rules. If someone enters your domain to dispute your views, they must adhere to your guidelines.
However, if you venture into someone else’s online territory—their social media feed, blog, or subreddit—and feel compelled to criticize something they enjoy, you’ve lost the moral high ground. In this scenario, you become the antagonist, and the defense of ‘let people enjoy things’ becomes justified.
Don’t blame the fans of Game of Thrones, blame the show itself
This guideline isn’t about restricting your opinions but about avoiding exaggeration. There’s a clear distinction between stating ‘Game of Thrones has problematic elements’ and claiming ‘Anyone who enjoys Game of Thrones is problematic.’ While some works may appeal primarily to questionable audiences, and people’s enjoyment of certain media can reveal their biases (e.g., those who dislike Skyler in Breaking Bad), it’s crucial to separate the flaws in the work from the flaws in its audience.
Many fans are perceptive enough to recognize the shortcomings of their favorite shows. For instance, Friends remains a top show on Netflix, yet numerous viewers acknowledge its fat-shaming, homophobic, and misogynistic moments. They’re aware of the show’s lack of diversity, as evident as Ross’s gleaming teeth. These fans don’t hide behind the ‘let people like things’ argument—they engage in meaningful discussions about the show’s flaws.
Before criticizing the fans of something, consider whether your issue lies with them or with the subject itself. It could be both, but don’t jump to conclusions.
Only dish it out if you can handle it in return
If you’ve shared a critique publicly, you’ve opened the door to debate. If you’re prepared for it, like Wagner is, then go ahead. But if the idea of others voicing opposing views bothers you, perhaps reconsider posting. There’s a distinction between holding an opinion privately and broadcasting it to the world, even if social media blurs that line.
I’m not excited about the comments this will generate.
