I spend too much time on X.com (the site formerly known as Twitter). One of my frustrations with the site is that it tends to amplify the angriest voices. There’s a predicable sort of conflict liturgy that takes place on the microblogging platform. A discussion over the controversy du jour will break out. Many people will weigh in, but it’s not the most nuanced or thoughtful takes that get attention. It’s simply the most extreme and heated. More people engage with these posts (if only to disagree) but the net effect is that they get more engagement, and the algorithm thrusts them into everyone’s feeds. The phenomenon creates a perverse incentive. If your post is going to get more views, it pays to be angry.

So how can we change the equation? Drawing on Amanda Ripley’s concept of “conflict entrepreneurs” Russell Moore proposes a simple solution: ignore them. “Pugilists can only succeed where there are willing customers. All of us can resolve to invest elsewhere.” Read: How to Combat the Conflict Entrepreneurs.

Of course, social media isn’t the only place where conflict happens. Conflict can also poison the life of your church, especially if not handled correctly. Our resource, Handling Conflict, contains how-to articles, assessments, case studies, and devotionals on the topic from a variety of respected leaders.