The energy was meant for Zuckerberg, as there are a lot of fears and excitements surrounding FB. Lacy stood in the way of the mob and their quarry. The organizers should have placed a strong mediator there, or put someone on stage when they saw it spiraling out of control. Hold the mob solely accountable? Or the organizers who really should understand mob mentality? Hmm.

We’re talking about one of the most passionate and sensitive industries in the world. And relatively inexperienced, in terms of social practice and behavior in business. Arguably, it could be that this sort of openness and accountability is a new standard. That’s what our industry brings to media, why would we expect the heart and soul to be any different in real life?

// Regarding the comments about Boomers and business

I struggle with this issue as well. Though I have absolutely no insecurity about perception. Perception is a problem of today, not tomorrow. Asking our industry to change who they are to appease an aging population is backwards. It just ain’t gonna happen. There’s a strong dynamic between Gen X and the boomers that cannot be ignored in this conversation. That dynamic is the very heart of what this industry is founded on. Who’s to say that any of us really care if traditional business looks upon us with scorn? It’s most likely that we actually take pride in that.

// To future presenters, “Know your audience.”

This industry is true Revenge of the Nerds. We grew up on this stuff and were subject to second and third class citizens for it. There’s an exuberance and elation that comes with the rising profile. An entire industry of angst-filled rock stars.

The behavior? Inexcusable, perhaps to some. But to vast others it will be celebrated. No matter how you look at it, it’s understandable. And I think that we can expect to see more of this for some time, whilst we’re all trying to get a handle on where this new world is going.

So to the media hoping to serve this group moving forward, “Surprise! You’re going to have to change your approach drastically.”

Jason
http://www.twitter.com/jasonhargrove

PS__

I also don’t think that it’s appropriate to compare throwing snowballs and D-batteries (or any other physical mob violence) to this situation. These audience members are not hooligans. They’re passionate and dedicated professionals who vocally reject the song and dance. They’re blunt and to the point. No time for irrelevance.

I side with them.

Eric: Spoken like a true Philadelphian!

I’m glad you’re not defending Lacy. She’s a fine reporter, but if you watch carefully, she lead with a statement, engages the audience first, and reacts to almost every heckle. It could have been anyone taking her approach with any group and possibly ended the same.

Best,
Rich