RE: ADMIN: Civility and content

[DaveC <peninsula -at- covad -dot- net>]

If *civility* (or lack thereof) is the issue, address *that*. 
Addressing civility with posting limits is like addressing teen 
pregnancy with teacups.

Police (oh don't we hate that word!) the uncivil with banishment. It 
won't take long before civility returns post-haste! I speak from 
experience -- not having been banished, but belonging to a list that 
has rules that are not fascist, yet effective. Three or four members 
get bounced off the list annually, and everything goes smoothly. 
There are many off-topic contributions, which are frequently 
passionate, but remain civil.

I personally think that frivolous commenting can be dealt with on an 
individual basis with one's Delete key. It's the nature of a list to 
have to wade through subject lines (don't open anything you're not 
willing to swallow it). Personally, I use filters on those persons 
whose contributions are less-than-wise, thereby not having to decide 
to open their missives at all.

Dave

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