Trolling as provocation: YouTube's agonistic publics

This article explores the productive role of provocation in YouTube publics in the context of two culturally and geographically situated visual events that took place in New Zealand throughout 2011. Through qualitative analysis of the extensive comments fields for the two videos, the article examines the nature of participatory acts associated with what has been called at different times flaming, hating or trolling. The article argues that such acts can only be properly understood within their cultural and geographic context and in their ability to affect and extend 'agonistic' publics. The analysis addresses online passion, conflict and vitriol through the notion of 'acts of citizenship', as productive forms of provocation.