On Mon, 23 Jul 2001, Steve Torrence wrote:
> Why is this list set up so that when you reply it goes to the
> author of the mail instead of the list? Only if you use REPLY TO
> ALL do you get the list address in the CC but then you have the
> original author in the TO so he gets 2 copies of the message.
>
> It seems having it set to reply to the list would be best.
This is a matter of considerable (& silly) debate on a lot of mailing
lists. The arguments generally run something as follows:
* cc: to list by default
+ forces you to consider the fact that many people will be reading
your message; if the material is really of interest just to the
original poster, then perhaps it's better to go to that person.
+ cuts down on frivolous traffic (me too, aol, 'yes', etc posts)
+ staves off some flame wars
* to: to list by default
+ most people almost always want the messages to go to the list,
rather than any one individual, and can manually send a message
to any given individual if they choose to do so.
+ flame wars need better deterrants than a cc: field...
There are others, but these are what come immediately to mind. I'm sure
you'd find no shortage of material on the interweb if you search for it.
In the end, it's a matter of personal preference and, because most lists
don't give you a choice in the matter, accepting the status quo. One
enlightened list I'm on is deliverable in three modes -- 'pure' (cc: to
list), normal (to: to list), and digest. This is a very nice compromise,
but more work than most list admins probably feel like doing. On the
whole, it's just something to get used to...
*shrug*
--
Chris Devers [EMAIL PROTECTED]
