Posted by Dr. Bob on June 14, 2002, at 2:22:39
In reply to Babes in PsychoBabbleLand? DrBob, Please read..., posted by kid_A on June 12, 2002, at 16:35:52
> By and large I would say that the primary body of users here that I have come in contact with are polite and civil individuals. Despite our imbalances, I think we live up to the notion of a mostly civil online society.
I totally agree, you guys are great. Seriously. :-)
> I do think it possible, within the bounds of reason to determine if a poster is adding either more signal or perhaps noise to the environment
Possible how? Interesting question...
> Unfortunately ... I think that some people are feeling alienated and helpless in their ability to not only speak their minds, but to preserve what for them has previously been a welcoming environment unhindered by social upheaval.
>
> Letting users run rampant regardless of their effect (outside the bounds of what could be considered uncivil behaviour) on others while at the same time stymieing those users who have over a period of time both contributed positively to the board and come to rely on it for support only serves to alienate many users for the sake of one or two.
>
> Whats left is a homogenized and watered down mode of conversation ... where we are ill advised to speak our mind lest we be banished for some period of time. We all become dictated by fake and constrained responses even when threatened or perhaps challenged.
>
> I do think at times punishment can be unfairly meted out where perhaps some compassion would have served the community better, especially in instances where those who have so well contributed previously have been isolated from their peers for their perhaps minor violations of civility.It sounds like you're saying the wrong people are stymied? People who should be able to speak their minds are helpless, and those who shouldn't are running rampant?
IMO, a civil environment is a welcoming environment. And to keep it civil, restraint is necessary -- *especially* when threatened or challenged. It can be frustrating, but it's for the good of the community as a whole. You may think it's bland, but spicy food isn't for everyone, either.
As far as being fair, I'm trying...
Bob
poster:Dr. Bob
thread:5602
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20020510/msgs/5614.html