I received a note recently from a member who appreciated how much the
list discourse had improved, generally, in the days since early
September. I agree with her, and thank all of you.

However, I am worried we're slipping a bit. A couple of things to keep
in mind:

Direct your comments about people's behavior to the people themselves.
If you make it a "list issue," it only keeps the bad vibe going - and
that's what you didn't like in the first place. Also, our list rules
state that complaints about members' conduct be made to me, and I'll
arrange discipline.

Please stick to issues & facts and try to avoid characterizations or
inflammatory labels. This is especially important if you feel like
criticizing some for doing same.

Also, it's bad form to criticize people for things like misspelling and
grammar (unless the person is claiming to be a spelling or grammar
champ.) It's ticky-tack stuff that really only incites, almost always
off the topic. If you really want to educate a list member, I recommend
an off-list tutorial.

Be good to each other, people, or at least try to ratchet down the extra
punishment. If you have the facts on your side, you shouldn't need the
extra heat - and it does help keep this a discussion list rather than a
shouting match.

David Brauer
List manager


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