Ah! A teachable moment! (Sorry for the clich� but sometimes I can't resist).
Tom Borrup writes:
> I don't know m a al-Kabir, but I do know that what he (or she?) has to say --
> while sometimes a bit inarticulate or inflammatory -- makes more sense to me
> than much of what I read here. The tidy little applecart that some people
> think Minneapolis is, does need a little upsetting from time to time. This
> individual speaks from a very genuine place, and I often share similar
> observations. I think listening instead of reacting with charges of racism
> would be more constructive. Trying to silence such voices is an inappropriate
> response -- to put it politely.
I understand where Tom is coming from. I try not to kick people off for
their political views. We need all views here. I believe our rules can
accommodate the most pointed and serious political disagreements without
name-calling and insult.
It is still possible to cross the line, though - a serious subject can be
raised in a gratuitous way.
The standard I use with all serious charges - racism, corruption, etc. - is
that they must be explained. With explanation, one can debate. Without
explanation, such a charge is mere insult prohibited by our rules.
I try to apply this standard fairly, and I let members who "go there" know
about it well before issuing any warnings. I have discussed this on the
list, but it's been several months, so it's a good time to do this again.
The intent, again, is to allow for pointed disagreement but stop short of
allowing every kitchen-sink insult in.
David Brauer
List manager
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