Re: [TruthTalk] Here is Part of the Problem

[David Miller]

I'm posting this publicly so everyone might understand the ad hominem rule better.   Judy and others:   If you disagree with or don't understand the moderator's ruling, please write him privately for explanation.  If you want to courtesy copy me or any other TruthTalk member who you think might have a bias from your side, feel free to do so.  If we start discussing the moderator's rulings on the list, we will be degrading the quality of the posts.   As far as the "ad hominem" aspect, I think Slade was referring to your subject line.  Next time, just leave off Lance's name and say something like, "Here's part of the problem..."  Also, note that an "ad hominem" argument is not a sin.  Therefore, your conscience will not be bothered by it.  An "ad hominem" argument simply makes e-mail correspondence more difficult, so we choose to try and avoid it here on this list.  Surely you can understand how having a subject line that says, "Here is Part of the Problem of Doing Things Lance's Way" might cause Lance to feel uncomfortable and feel a need to defend himself or say something like, "Here is Part of the Problem with Doing Things Judy's Way."  Generally speaking, never put another member's name in the subject line.  It makes the dialogue become personal, even if you are praising the person whose name you put in there.  Maybe only men have their ego influenced by this?  I doubt it, but maybe men feel it more than humble women like Judy.  :-)   Incidentally, if in writing your post you find yourself writing the name of the person you are responding to frequently, chances are that you are becoming personal in your dialogue.  Just a tip to help keep your focus on the subject matter rather than the person.   Thanks, Slade, for taking steps.  I know it is hard.  Things will smooth out as we go along.   Peace be with you. David Miller.