Protestantism

» Brian Tubbs - How to Handle Online Discussions

Several threads have erupted into some pretty sharp exchanges and intense personal arguments over the last few days. It is NOT possible (nor desirable) for me to comment on these arguments in all these threads. So, I'm starting this one - a thread that we can dedicate exclusively to the "Rules of Engagement" (if you will).

Here's Suite101's official policy...

http://www.suite101.com/info.cfm/policy_...

Excerpt: Suite101.com Media Inc. ("Suite101") encourages members to engage one another in debates, but does not condone personal attacks on members. You may not use the Website to send or post messages or material that are unlawful, harassing, libelous, defamatory, abusive, threatening, harmful, vulgar, obscene, profane, sexually-oriented, threatening, racially offensive, inaccurate, or otherwise objectionable or that encourages conduct that could constitute a criminal offense, give rise to civil liability or otherwise violate any applicable local, state, national or international law or regulation.

And here's what Suite101 has to say in terms of recommendations and advice for ACHIEVING the above policy...

http://www.suite101.com/info.cfm/posting...

My personal opinion is that we ALL need to take a 'chill pill' and realize that text-based discussions (particularly vigorous ones on controversial issues) WILL lead to misunderstandings, frustrations, and anxiety. It's bound to happen. So, everyone needs to realize that.

If a SERIOUS breach of the above Suite101 policies occurs - and please use some discretion in this - then you can lodge a formal complaint with me (via email). Please allow up to 24 hours for me to respond.

If I agree that a violation has taken place, I will contact the offending party either via email or through the discussion boards.

If I disagree, then you can appeal my decision to the Suite101 Mind & Soul editor, Lisa Mansfield.

If that doesn't satisfy you, then you can ask Lisa to assist you in sending your complaint higher to Suite101 management.

However, I would ask that we all try to deal with situations INFORMALLY and UNOFFICIALLY as best we can.

Do read the Suite101 etiquette link. It has some helpful suggestions in there, like not posting when you're angry. I need to learn that one too.

And, remember....

Jesus said: "Love your neighbor as yourself."

Let's all treat each other with cordiality, respect, and good neighborly love.