“When inquisitive individuals search for “LOLCow” on Google, a phrase circulating on TikTok, the top link leads to an outdated blog server that Google’s archived page description describes as a platform for anonymously sharing gossip and opinions about foolish and bizarre individuals, known as lolcows. Urban Dictionary offers various definitions for a LOLCow, including someone who is easy to mock, a source of laughs who is unaware of being made fun of, and someone who repeatedly makes a fool of themselves on the internet. The concept of a LOLCow is not new, originating from the early days of the internet where anonymous accounts allowed users to openly harass each other.
With the rise of platforms like TikTok, LOLCows now have the potential to gain sudden fame and monetary rewards, often becoming the focus of everyone’s attention. They may collaborate with popular creators, secure brand deals, and transform their online persona into a source of income. However, this environment can also be manipulated, with TikTok masking the modern LOLCow phenomenon under the guise of love and fandom.
The term “LOLCow” has evolved over time, with some viewing it as a form of modern bullying disguised as harmless fun. Critics argue that targeting individuals as LOLCows can be cruel and ableist, leading to negative consequences for the individuals involved. The rise of LOLCows has been compared to reality TV shows that exploit unusual behaviors for entertainment.
While some watchers claim to relate to or support LOLCows out of compassion, others see them as easy targets for mockery and manipulation. The online community surrounding LOLCows can be both supportive and exploitative, with creators facing harassment, abuse, and potential doxxing. Platforms like Reddit and Discord have dedicated spaces for discussing and following LOLCows, contributing to the phenomenon.
As social media continues to shape online culture, the ethics of engaging with LOLCows are being questioned. The parasocial relationship between creators and viewers can have unforeseen consequences, with some creators turning to adult content or other money-making ventures to capitalize on their viral fame. The revival of the LOLCow concept in public discourse highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the impact of online behavior on individuals’ lives.”