Project Reason is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation devoted to spreading scientific knowledge and secular values in society. The foundation draws on the talents of prominent and creative thinkers in a wide range of disciplines to encourage critical thinking and erode the influence of dogmatism, superstition, and bigotry in our world.
As the staff are discussing the rules for the Forum, I would like to hear from the Community on what they would like to see. If there are rules guidelines that you liked on other sites, or things that you do not like, let us know.
I’d say no swearing, as there’s already been some.
Interesting thought. My initial reaction was F*** that, but upon reflection if we intend to have a rational and logical forum maybe swearing is not only undesirable but counter productive to the culture we wish to build here. We can choose at this point to create a place where only civil debate is permitted. Don’t know the answer, just trying to formulate the question.
I’d disagree with the ‘no swearing’ rule. A strategically placed swear word can add some much needed levity to serious discussions at times, and I’m sure the socially aware demographic this site appeals to doesn’t need nannying. Arguably this site is mainly about debunking myths and sometimes you just have to call ‘bullshit’.
It is possible that the site has technology to astericks out swearing. Being ex-Navy, I have a considerable foul mouth… but I can easily tone it in during these kinds of discussions. I would support censorship in this case, but I don’t think it should have negative ramifications towards the posters. I think there should be rules around directly attacking other members. We need to be able to disagree without being completely disagreeable. Racism and hate should not be tolerated. Nor should direct threats.
Obviously rules around common moderation in message boards where subject material should fit the content section where it is posted.
I think it is a good idea to look at the rules other message boards employ to better tailor rules for any forum site you are moderating.
I think there’s room for a rule on excessive swearing, but I don’t think it’s necessary to completely ban it. I usually only see swearing as a problem when it’s used to troll/insult other board members.
Obviously, pornographic links/avatars/signatures should not be allowed. And I think a NSFW disclaimer rule would nice too.
Not sure if it’s a simple option or something that has to be coded. But this might be important enough that it would be worth it. I have sent a message to the developer about this issue.
The first thing I can think of is that personal attacks should not be tolerated.
Of course, but aside from the obvious, what is a personal attack? This is not as easy as you think.
True, I think it is a bit hard to put down in words, something similar to “I know it when I see it”...
Perhaps a rule somewhat like “if the main intent of a post is to attack the character of a person, it should be deemed inappropriate and subject to deletion.”
A warning system is also useful, something like a 3 strike system…1st strike=warning, 2nd strike= suspension for a certain period of time, 3rd strike=permanent ip ban.
The first thing I can think of is that personal attacks should not be tolerated.
Of course, but aside from the obvious, what is a personal attack? This is not as easy as you think.
True, I think it is a bit hard to put down in words, something similar to “I know it when I see it”...
Perhaps a rule somewhat like “if the main intent of a post is to attack the character of a person, it should be deemed inappropriate and subject to deletion.”
A warning system is also useful, something like a 3 strike system…1st strike=warning, 2nd strike= suspension for a certain period of time, 3rd strike=permanent ip ban.
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