On Thu, 30 Dec 2004, George Pinto wrote:
moderate versus censor a d-list. All d-lists need moderation (which includes admin functions). I do not consider closing a discussion after several weeks censorship. Ample opportunity was given members to express their views.
Regards, George
Actually, *not* all electronic mailing lists need moderation; smaller lists can well do without moderation. Once a list grows a few hundred members in size, it would necessarily need moderation. Unless the members are extremely disciplined in staying on-topic, or it's a serious technical mailing-list where chances of getting caught up in flame-wars are rather limited.
But even an unmoderated list would need to keep on-track by cross-checking who signs up for membership, or taking action (e.g. dismissal) of anyone who blatantly violates list rules.
For any Admin, the biggest challenge is how to frame a set of rules that are practical and neutral to all, and then to allow a wide berth for viewpoints including those which the admin doesn't agree with.
Being only human, we do make mistakes. But we do try.
And those on the outside who can't appreciate Herman's behind-the-scenes continued leadership of Goanet really need to see all those messages zooming around the place to keep this service going and growing even as our young engineer friend continues with his medicine studies in the UK.
On behalf of Herman (recently in Germany). Bosco (who's slogging it out keying in stuff for Goanet while on holiday in Goa and commiserating with our slow Internet speeds here, outsides of a handful of cybercafes) and Vivians (somewhere between San Francisco and Goa, or already here), let me wish all Goanetters a meaningful 2005. The crackers burst here already. FN
