Posted by Dr. Bob on April 15, 2000, at 15:13:31
In reply to Re: possible new registration system, posted by Brandon on April 15, 2000, at 14:13:49
Hi, everyone,
Thanks for all the feedback. Maybe registration isn't the way to go. :-) But let me try to respond a little.
> NG = NO GOOD
> Anonymity is a prerequisite for this sort of group, and this sort of discussion.
> Personal/demographic information should be given on a voluntary basis only.I was thinking just plain registration would be based on the "handle" used here and therefore wouldn't need to compromise anyone's anonymity. And it could be on a purely voluntary basis that other information would be given.
Even anonymous registration would make it easier to deal with unsupportive posters. But yes, it would mean another password to deal with.
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> Regarding the demographic surveys, I am curious how anyone could know that the information gathered would be true or accurate?
Well, there wouldn't be any simple way to guarantee the accuracy of the information. But inaccurate information makes its way into the census, too, and the census is still useful. And if the information is voluntarily given, there's less incentive to misrepresent oneself.
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> Somebody who is in real trouble and needs help shouldn't be deterred from reaching out for it. Let's say a suicidal person needs to go to the ER, but he/she needs a little support from real people --even through cyberspace---and not just some leaflet. That person should not have to worry about paying.
> there might be people who don't have credit cards or the financial means to pay for participating (perhaps my fellow public library internet users).
> world-wide the poor list access to information and ability to express their opinions to others on the internet right up there with clean water, food, shelter, medicine and education.
I agree. Maybe one way to address this would be to give everyone a certain number of "free" posts. Like a trial subscription. So they could express their opinions and ask some questions and get some support.
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> several of the current posters are so knowledgeable that they could charge for their advice and information; they contribute it free out of a sincere desire to help others. It doesn't seem reasonable to expect people to pay to volunteer.
> Pay so I can give out free support and info ? Never !
I know, it sounds crazy. And this board wouldn't be what it is without a core of active, knowledgeable, and caring posters.
I was thinking that people could not be charged if they posted a certain amount. Or that they could even *receive* something. To compensate them for their contributions. Then I thought:
What if *everyone* received something? I kind of like that idea...
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OK, let's see where this discussion goes. Thanks again for all your input,
Bob
poster:Dr. Bob
thread:30069
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000411/msgs/30129.html