Because some of the comments have been getting out of hand (again), I’m going to start enforcing the commenting policy more rigorously for some time, and will put people who repeatedly violate it on moderation. Of course, it’s going to be arbitrary, but that can’t be avoided. Now that comment volume has gone down to a reasonable level (a year ago there were just too many to handle, and winter of 2010 was insane), it should be easier for me to do this without simply hacking away blindly.
The majority of commenters should just carry on as usual, but those who frequently violate the commenting policy in deed and in spirit will have to calm down.
A few things that have been bothersome:
1. Excessive crudity, disgusting imagery, graphic obscenities, etc.
2. SHOUTING
3. Making arguments too personal
4. Drunken rants/excessive belligerence
5. Racial, ethnic and religious slurs/baiting
Please keep in mind that I really dislike moderating comments, so it would be nice if folks would not force the issue. I should say that I’ve been tempted at times to either (a) eliminate comments entirely or, (b) put everyone on moderation and only approve good comments. I don’t do this because I like and appreciate most commenters, and I know that they appreciate being able to comment in real time.
Therefore, I’m willing to do the unpleasant job of moderating to ensure that valued commenters can continue to have the opportunity to have their say. And, now that the site has matured, I think it’s time for a little more civility and an emphasis on thoughtful commentary.
