Panic World The age of the lolcow
Dec 10, 2025
Join June Sternbach, a podcaster and commentator known for her sharp insights into internet culture, and Josh Boerman, an expert on online communities, as they delve into the dark and fascinating world of 'lolcows.' They discuss the troubling intersection of political extremism and online harassment, highlighting the Story of Chris Chan. The guests explore how trolling, doxing, and weaponization of personal narratives have shifted from mere entertainment to powerful political tools. They also caution about the future dangers posed by AI and the need for community support against such exploitation.
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Lolcow As A Social Mechanism
- Lolcows are people who post cringe, lack self-awareness, and invite targeted harassment online.
- The hosts tie lolcow culture to systemic stalking that escalates beyond mockery into sustained abuse.
Sonichu Sparked Public Scrutiny
- In 2004 Christine 'Chris' Chan began Sonichu, a mashup comic of Sonic and Pikachu, and posted personal details.
- Those uploads exposed private info and set the stage for years of online harassment and doxing.
Neurodivergence Changed The Dynamic
- Christine had an autism diagnosis that affected social reading and response to trolls.
- That neurodivergence amplified the online/offline collapse and made her an easier target for sustained abuse.