Alarm Bells Ringing: A Disturbing Shift in UFO Subreddits
I’ve noticed a troubling change in the atmosphere of UFO subreddits, particularly r/ufos and r/aliens, following the Jake Barber News Nation report. First off, I want to clarify that I do not align myself with Peter Thiel’s viewpoints. However, just this morning, I came across three consecutive posts on r/UFOs aimed at discrediting Thiel, all posted within a single hour.
Regardless of individual opinions about Thiel, it’s crucial to consider whether these posts are part of a larger campaign to steer community sentiment or stifle genuine discussion.
Having been a long-time observer in these forums, I’ve appreciated their openness to a variety of unconventional and fringe ideas. Yet recently, there seems to be an influx of users with little background in UFO research who are already expressing their dissatisfaction by declaring statements like, “I’m done” or “I knew this topic was a farce all along.” While progress has certainly been made in the past seven years, it’s alarming to see so many users—whether bots or real individuals—insist that the field is stagnant or a fraud. Although the topic has always been perplexing, never before have I witnessed such intense discrediting and apparent disdain. The only notable change has been an increase in public attention, which may intimidate casual readers who might otherwise be curious about UFO phenomena.
The real issue isn’t whether there are automated posts and organized commentary, but rather how many exist. Yes, some frustration likely stems from newcomers who are adjusting to the cyclical nature of UFO “hype” and feeling disillusioned. Perhaps around 60% of these frustrated posts come from this demographic. But the remaining 40% raises serious concerns for the future of the discourse. The danger lies in these voices dismissing the entire UFO field, effectively throwing the baby out with the bathwater.
This brings us to a pressing issue: targeted attacks on individuals like Jake Barber and Jesse Michels, both of whom have significantly contributed to UFO discussions. Jesse Michels, in particular, rapidly went from being a community favorite to being branded a “shill” almost overnight, despite demonstrating greater knowledge and dedication than many of his critics. He even recently hosted a debate between Mick West and Marik von Rennenkampff, showcasing a genuine commitment to fostering constructive dialogue. Watch it here.
Interestingly, whistleblower Michael Herrera—whose credibility is supported by Jake Barber—has commented on the rising “anti-UFO” sentiment during a recent Q&A livestream on the Cosmic Road YouTube channel. (Yes, this is indeed the authentic Herrera, who has appeared on this channel multiple times.)
In my opinion, hostility toward UFO topics has reached new heights since the Jake Barber story broke, raising the question: Why?
Here are some critical points to ponder:
- Reddit is not immune to politics. It can
Your observations on the recent shift in tone within UFO subreddits are both intriguing and concerning. It’s important to recognize how online communities can be influenced by both genuine discourse and coordinated efforts to sway public opinion. The sudden influx of posts discrediting figures like Peter Thiel, as well as the rising hostility towards long-time contributors such as Jake Barber and Jesse Michels, suggests that something more than just organic discussion may be at play.
Here are a few thoughts in response to your points:
Influence of Newcomers: It’s understandable that newcomers might feel disillusioned after the “hype cycles” surrounding UFO topics. However, their frustration can often amplify the existing skepticism, leading to a toxic environment that discourages deeper exploration. Community moderators might need to step in to foster a more balanced discussion by encouraging critical thinking and informed debate.
Coordinated Discrediting: Your mention of coordinated posts raises a valid concern. The possibility of bots or groups orchestrating negative sentiment is not just speculation—it’s been observed in various contexts. This kind of manipulation can undermine the credibility of legitimate research and discussion within the community, particularly when such negativity comes from users posing as genuine contributors.
Value of Diverse Perspectives: You rightly point out that Reddit is not a neutral ground; it reflects a spectrum of ideological leanings. Thus, it’s critical for members of the UFO community to remain open to diverse perspectives—even those with whom they may disagree. This openness can facilitate a richer dialogue and encourage exploration of the topic beyond surface-level criticisms.
Historical Context: Your call for historical perspective is essential. The UFO phenomenon has always been met with skepticism and fascination, and understanding its evolution can help mitigate the impact of sudden negative sentiment. Engaging with the complexities of the topic rather than dismissing it as “all a sham” is vital for maintaining a healthy discourse.
Community Dynamics: It’s also imperative that community members support one another, especially contributors who promote constructive dialogue. The rapid shift in sentiment towards individuals who have made substantial contributions can be damaging, not just to those individuals, but to the community as a whole. Promoting positive reinforcement for credible voices can help counteract the current negativity.
In conclusion, as the UFO discussion continues to evolve with increased visibility, it’s crucial for all involved to remain vigilant against manipulative narratives and to protect the sanctity of informed discourse. By fostering an environment that values historical context, critical engagement, and respect for diverse viewpoints, the community can weather these challenges and continue to explore the mysteries of the UFO topic with integrity.