Seems Bill McKibben gets it.

[pat_k]

5. But we outside of Maine can give a vote of confidence in the form of a donation -- and say FU to...

... those clearly orchestrating a smear with the goal, not of reporting past conduct in context with in-depth reporting, but to incite mob mentality, pure and simple. The piling on. The timing and rapidity of release, one after another to ensure no one report is scrutinized.

The smear is intended to reach far beyond the borders of Maine. And we who live beyond those borders can "stand down and stand by," or take a stand with dollars and words.

A mob doesn't stop and think. A mob doesn't take time to seek more information or put into context. A mob doesn't consider the human capacity for transformation. A mob doesn't call for deeper investigation of reports.

No. A mob grows on it's own momentum. Emotional contagion takes hold. As the mob forms people are thoughtlessly pulled in. As more join the mob, it's the classic snowball. If all these people are out there with pitchforks and torches, there MUST be a damn good reason. No need to stop, think, learn more, or evaluate.

Hallmarks of an orchestrated smear
https://www.democraticunderground.com/100221285435