This article explores the often unwarranted hatred directed towards VTubers, focusing on the experiences of Iron Mouse. It examines the reasons behind this animosity, the impact it has on creators, and the responsibility of larger creators to address the issue within their communities.
The Animosity Towards VTubers
Inaccurate Perceptions and Culture Shock
A significant reason for the hatred stems from inaccurate perceptions. Some individuals associate anime characters, particularly those resembling underage girls, with pedophilia and find the concept of VTubers "baiting." While acknowledging that some creators may engage in such practices, the speaker emphasizes that this does not represent the entire VTuber community. Furthermore, a general culture shock exists, particularly among those who are not familiar with online culture and cannot understand the appeal of VTubing.
Envy and Misplaced Anger
Many online haters are simply unhappy with their own lives. They become angry and resentful of those they perceive as successful, particularly when that success seems "undeserved." This resentment is amplified when they see VTubers, especially female VTubers, seemingly earning large sums of money without adhering to traditional beauty standards. The speaker emphasizes how looks are much more important to female flesh streamers, but VTubing makes it a "level playing field."
Monetized Hate and Lack of Accountability
Platforms like Twitter, unfortunately, sometimes incentivize "professional hating," allowing individuals to monetize negativity and spread it to larger audiences. This is further exacerbated by a perceived lack of accountability, where individuals feel free to attack others online without consequence.
Iron Mouse: A Case Study
The All-Time Sub Record and the Deluge of Hate
In 2024, Iron Mouse broke the all-time sub record on Twitch, a remarkable achievement. However, this milestone was met with a wave of vile comments, disturbing threats, and general hatred. The speaker stresses that this hate is not a new phenomenon and that VTubers, in general, face this type of animosity regularly.
Why VTubing is Important for Iron Mouse
The speaker highlights that Iron Mouse uses a VTuber avatar to overcome the limitations of their physical condition. She lives with primary immune deficiency, a severe illness that prevents her from interacting with others or leaving her room. VTubing provides a crucial outlet for social interaction and creative expression. It creates a level playing field that isn't always present for people in real life.
The Evolution of VTuber Perception
Initial Skepticism and Gradual Acceptance
When VTubers gained popularity in the West, there was initial skepticism and negativity, including from the speaker. However, as they paid more attention, they began to understand the appeal of VTubing and no longer cared.
From Uninspired Insults to Targeted Attacks
The initial wave of insults was relatively uninspired ("Are you a man? Are you an AI?"). But over time, the attacks grew more targeted and malicious, often fueled by fanboyism and misplaced anger.
The Game Awards Nomination and the Resulting Backlash
Iron Mouse's nomination and win for Content Creator of the Year at The Game Awards triggered a significant backlash. Many fans of other nominees expressed their anger and disbelief online, often resorting to hateful and abusive comments.
Constant Hatred and Psychotic Attacks
The speaker shows examples of some of the hatred that Iron Mouse gets, including comments about lying about her illness. The speaker makes it clear that the people leaving the negative comments don't watch his channel and that Iron Mouse doesn't deserve the hate she receives.
The Responsibility of Creators
Calling Out Negative Behavior
The speaker believes it's crucial for creators to actively call out negative behavior within their communities. Silence can be interpreted as tacit approval, allowing hateful attitudes to fester and spread.
Influencer Responsibility
Creators with large audiences have a responsibility to use their influence to promote respect and understanding. They influence their audience's opinions and should be mindful of the impact their words and actions have on others. The speaker emphasizes that those singing Iron Mouse's praises are not even fans of the channels, so the behavior is unwelcome.
A Plea for Civility and Understanding
The speaker ends the video on a somber note, expressing bewilderment at the prevalence of blind hatred online. They implore viewers to be more understanding and respectful, and to recognize the humanity behind the avatars.
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