What started the "hugs" movement on here?

[Dewdlz 938]

I'm curious what started the whole *hugs* idea. It seems like most people I've talked with via MLPF and Skype does this. Usually it's just a random saying when someone's in distress, whether it's meaningful or not I'm not sure. I kind of find it annoying to be honest because hugs are much more physically comforting and meaningful if it's a real hug. It's just trendy I guess. I say this because if someone wasn't feeling great, I would rather speak to them about it, than say *hugs*. It's just unhelpful in my opinion. I've noticed it progressing over time, and now I see it everywhere.

 

So, what do you think started it all? Maybe from another site or did it snowball into something common? 

[Guest]

First time I ever saw the "FREE HUGS!" was in an Anonymous video uploaded back in like.. 2008.

[Unikitty 1,212]

It's certainly not from MLPf, nor the fandom. It's just a more personal way to have empathy for someone in distress, or to show affection.

Whilst the optimal option can be to see about talking a problem through with someone, sometimes a hug is all they're looking for. I know I've felt that way before, and even though there's no physical contact, a *hug* from the right person can have just as much meaning.

[Marciblook 610]

Fluttershy, or pinkie pie! Obviously tch

[Dewdlz 938]

It's certainly not from MLPf, nor the fandom. It's just a more personal way to have empathy for someone in distress, or to show affection.

Whilst the optimal option can be to see about talking a problem through with someone, sometimes a hug is all they're looking for. I know I've felt that way before, and even though there's no physical contact, a *hug* from the right person can have just as much meaning.

I see. I used to be on DA forums, but I never seen it of the sort so it's quite new to me. Also, when it's said a lot it doesn't feel whole-hearted and honest, it's just saying it because it's a common thing, but that's just how I feel about it. 

[DubWolf 16,853]

I'm not really sure . I know a friend of mine always *hugged* people, so I got it from him, and now I *hug* my girlfriend all the time .

[IcyHaze 593]

It's ok to not like it, don't worry. We're here for you.

 

*hugs*

[Dewdlz 938]

It's ok to not like it, don't worry. We're here for you.

 

*hugs*

Oh, you're just showing an example of a meaningless hug. Nice work!

[Red Cedar 1,408]

I've encountered this online for the better part of two decades now. MLPF didn't start it. It's been happening as long as chatting online has.

[DATA EXPUNGED 324]

I dont think this epidemic was created by the MLPF. However, some of the more susceptible members of the collective have caught the virus. May the Onion have mercy on us all...

[EddG 554]

It isn't exclusive to MLP:F

It has been around a while. Heck I've seen it on Vocaloid Otaku back in 2008.

Edited February 25, 2015 by EddG

[Night Wing 387]

to be honest i dont know what started it

[VitalSpark 1,830]

Personally I just give *slaps*.

[Roughshod 719]

I don't see how you could determine where exactly it first started if it even has a definitive starting point at all. In any case it's here now and as you say quite common and unlikely to go away soon.

 

I agree it's fairly annoying, largely unhelpful and generally insincere. It strikes me as a pseudo-empathetic gesture that has turned into a trend.

[Shadow Beam 1,179]

I also found it quite annoying at first. But at the end, it's people trying to make you feel better, so I keep my mouth shut.

[Lucky Star 971]

I'm not sure, but lot's of people aside from bronies do it.

 

but one thing is certain.

 

Hugging helps, just ask Finn the human.

 

*huggles everybody*