Topic: Question: What can and can't be said on this Forum?....

[marty_baby]

Hi Guys,

Can I have some clarification on what acceptably can and can't, be SAID or DISCUSSED on this forum?


The last thing I think any of us want to see is a boring sanitised Forum.  A forum where the only things dared to be posted - are happy vague plaudits etc.  Where any real issues are not discussed, as they are seen by posters as potentially "off centre."

I personally like to see a meaty level of debate, with the good AND THE BAD discussed etc.  Thats the kind of forum i'd keep coming back to!

People have warned me about getting involved with internet forums, and voicing how you feel etc.  however, I'm one of the guys who will happily stick my head above the parapet, and say what I think, and get down to the nitty gritty of an issue. 

I do think that internet forums are a great place to raise the level of debate, and to give a voice to those who would otherwise not speak up about how they feel.  However, I'd like to know what the boundaries are.


NB:
My personal limits are:
Never make it personal to individuals
Be polite, but do voice my opinions on topics
Expect to be shot at for expressing an opinion, or if I'm out of line, but hey - thats life!   

 
Cheers
Martin


PS:
Bit of a heavy can of worms this - great way to start the new year!   

[John Gimber: Webmaster]

Hi Marty,

It's a good question, and I think that you sum it up pretty well.

I want to stimulate discussion and provoke thought, even if the people involved don't agree!

Granted there is a limit: factual where possible (though sometimes the real facts will actually come out in the course of a conversation), no slander (should be libel on a forum, I suppose!), and personal insults need to be avoided where possible. 

** If you think someone's being a dork, don't slander him/her, SMITE him/her and reduce their credibility! It's a nice get-out.

Copyright issues: well, we've been down that one, and I'm happy for anything to go on the forum providing it doesn't take advantage of people or their work.  If permission from the person(s) involved is obtained, then hey - great stuff.

But yes, a forum is a place to discuss and chew over issues, and isn't a place to simply "rubber stamp" a sanitised, PC viewpoint! 

John.

[marty_baby]

Thanks for that John!