Posted by garnet71 on February 22, 2009, at 13:14:27
In reply to a new beginning..., posted by twinleaf on February 21, 2009, at 15:46:43
Wow, Twinleaf, that was a very articulate and thoughtful assessment. You are a very focused writer, and you seem like you have a really good head on your shoulders.
I agree with what SeldomSeen has said--maintaining a balance through moderation is perhaps the key.
While it is objective to say, for example, you shouldn't criticize the person and instead, criticise the concept (while trying to remain constructive); in doing so, determining whether or not someone is acting "uncivil" ends up being subjective some of the time. What I don't understand is the stance towards political discussions here, but it is a common attitude in the U.S. If you have certain beliefs about politics in terms of policy/international relations, discussing them is nothing against any other person who disagrees; one is criticizing the policy--not the individual person. There are so many angles from which to structure our government policies, and censorship of such things is very dangerous. Not that this forum would have an impact, but it is a hugely important ideal by virtue itself. Political discourse should be encouraged in all forms-in all places-at all times. See, that's my subjective opinion. That's a peeve of mine about the civic nature of the U.S. We are just harming ourselves--our society-with creating a taboo in discussing politics--big time. Political discourse is no different, in my view, with agreeing or disagreeing about what medications or therapies to use. Many of us criticize therapies and medications--in doing so, we are not criticizing the person who thinks such things are right for them.
We all form our morals, beliefs, opinions based upon our education, experience, and cognitive types; that in itself leads to subjectivity. Moderators, while seemingly trying to remain objective and non-partial, also derive their conclusions from what I just stated.
There are also forum dynamics to contend with, similar to what you'd find in the workplace and other groups. I've seen some forum drama here, but it's to be expected. I do think people can hurt others in internet forums through being passive agressive and via ambient means--and it probably goes unnoticed by moderators. This, in my opinion, is worse than someone saying something 'mean' to another, partly because what is done is unnoticed by those other than the person being hurt. It can lead to feelings of powerlessness and isolation.
I don't like the idea of censorship, but I don't know the alternative. I just wanted to let you know that was a great post and to wish you well for your new beginning.
Cheers
poster:garnet71
thread:881542
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20081228/msgs/881675.html