GODWIN Meaning and
Definition
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Godwin is a term used to refer to a well-known internet principle known as Godwin's Law. It is named after Mike Godwin, an American lawyer, and author, who first proposed this adage in 1990. According to Godwin's Law, "As an online discussion grows longer, the probability of a comparison involving Nazis or Hitler approaches 1." In essence, it suggests that the longer an online conversation or discussion ensues, the higher the likelihood of someone invoking a reference to Hitler, the Nazis, or some form of extreme comparison, irrespective of the discussion's original topic.
The mention of "Godwin" or "Godwin's Law" usually implies that a conversation or debate has reached a point where the argument has deteriorated, and one party has resorted to using facile and inflammatory comparisons to make their point. In such cases, the invocation of Godwin's Law is a way to highlight the fallacy or weakness in the argument made by the person resorting to extreme comparisons.
This concept has become prominent with the rise of the internet and social media platforms where discussions can quickly devolve into name-calling and extreme comparisons. While Godwin's Law is often seen as a humorous observation about online behavior, it serves as a reminder to engage in respectful and constructive discussions, without resorting to hyperbolic comparisons involving Hitler or the Nazis.
Common Misspellings for GODWIN
Etymology of GODWIN
The word Godwin does not have its own etymology as it is a proper noun derived from personal names. However, the name Godwin itself does have roots in Old English. It is composed of two elements: god, meaning good, and wine, meaning friend or friendship. Therefore, Godwin can be interpreted to mean good friend or friend of God.
Similar spelling words for GODWIN
- Goodine,
- goodenow,
- goodin,
- twin,
- gooden,
- Godin,
- Towing,
- coding,
- Goodwyn,
- glowing,
- goddamn,
- Goodwin,
- goodenia,
- godina,
- go down,
- growing,
- goddam.
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