Why is it internet fandom has some of the nastiest people?

[Rev. Rye]

And bear in mind, this isn't an observation unique to the guys who do Penny Arcade. This is a phoenomenon that's actually been studied, and even given the more APA-friendly name "the Online Disinhibition Effect."

Naturally, this can go either way, with people being more open to discussing their legitimate likes and dislikes or mental health issues, but given the inherent asymmetry between pain and pleasure, it's only natural that people focus on the pain it causes.