[isk517]

I think that unfortunately there are just a larger number of assholes than we would like to believe, and they particularly manifest when playing video games. Playing video games is something people due for a release, and what they are releasing isn't always pleasant. For every person that openly acts like a asshole out in public there are at least 2 secret assholes who understand the society expects them to be on their best behavior, but once they are anonymous then the vitriol can flow freely.

With that said I think the percentage of assholes by percentage of population is always going to be higher in video games with voice chat simply because it becomes a outlet for a certain type of person.

[slowmovintarget]

No, that's not what science tells us is going on. There are no in-person cues that tell someone their behavior is unacceptable or must be controlled:

- Other people watching (no social cost)

- No facial expressions or body language from others triggering mirror neurons that serve as empathy precursors.

- No risk (violence, loss of property, loss of status... etc.)

There are simply too many people that don't consciously monitor their own behavior for right and wrong. Absent those other layers and pressures, we all tend to make unconsciously selfish decisions. That many young people don't think about the morality involved in those behaviors is a failure of upbringing, not nature (IMHO).