Posted by Dr. Bob on June 29, 2010, at 18:58:55
In reply to Re: helping this site run smoothly, posted by chujoe on June 28, 2010, at 7:48:01
> > Interacting with others may be frustrating, staying civil may be a challenge, and new skills may be required. They can help others develop those skills.
>
> Community members may also decide that they do not want to participate in the Mr. Rogersifcation of the site.Could you elaborate on what you mean by "Mr. Rogersifcation"?
> Actually, I agree that a site like this needs moderation -- of a sort that fosters an ethos of responsibility. Anyway, there is just a hint, in the language quoted above, of the sort of infantilization I'm concerned about, not that I have a solution. I guess, if pressed, I'd suggest just dropping the language that asks others to help an offending poster rephrase, replacing it with a suggestion that the poster review the site guidelines. That way, the community could join in if they wish, but without the whole "Now, children, can we show Johnny how we behave at Psychobabble..." attitude.
That very language is actually intended to foster an ethos of responsibility. As in, friends don't let friends get blocked.
> Recruiting others to "rephrase" and reeducate has a slightly Maoist tang about it.
Or, it reflects an Eastern/collectivist perspective more than a Western/individualistic one.
Bob
"a brilliant and reticent Web mastermind" -- The New York Times
poster:Dr. Bob
thread:951716
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20100321/msgs/952650.html