Community Discussion and Interaction Guidelines
Overview Community Interaction
When Adolph Ochs bought the New York Times in 1896, this is what he wanted to accomplish:
”It will be my earnest aim that The New York Times give the news, all the news, in concise and attractive form, in language that is permissible in good society, and give it as early if not earlier, than it can be learned through any other reliable medium; to give the news impartially, without fear or favor, regardless of party, sect, or interest involved; to make of the columns of The New York Times a forum for the consideration of all questions of public importance, and to that end to invite intelligent discussion from all shades of opinion.”
That’s a good representation of what we hope to do in this community.
We strive to separate valued, honest thoughts from the overwhelming white noise created by today’s talking heads seeking nothing but market share and clicks.
This forum is not meant to justify individual personal beliefs, values, or behaviors and recruit others to any particular “side.”
The idea is to not dwell on the few specific beliefs where we differ but focus on and remember the many principle-based values we share in common, where our moral imperatives overlap.
None of us need to buy into another’s beliefs. It seems there is so much good in people that it is often overlooked or even rejected when there are only minor points of disagreement. Shouldn’t we still buy into the person’s intrinsic value even if we disagree with only a few unimportant issues?
While everyone has their own style, we are each expected to adhere to guiding principles as we interact. Here are a few thoughts:
Make positive comments that build up and not tear down. As promoted in the song “Accentuate The Positive” by Johnny Mercer:
You’ve got to accentuate the positive,
Eliminate the negative,
And latch on to the affirmative.
Don’t mess with Mister In-Between.
Let’s unite to stimulate intellectual curiosity and celebrate our shared values!
Following are Some Specific Standards of Community Interaction
Be courteous and respectful
Express your views politely without insults, name-calling, or personal attacks. We welcome diverse perspectives but ask that you engage thoughtfully and with consideration for others.
Keep it constructive
Offer thoughtful contributions that move conversations forward. Avoid overt negativity that derails the productive exchange of ideas.
Encourage each other’s growth and learning. Celebrate successes and offer support during challenges.
Show empathy and care
This is a shared space - be mindful of others’ feelings and experiences. If you disagree, do so in a respectful way that builds understanding.
There is no reason or need to “call out” another person or organization. We all have plenty to work on for ourselves.
Inclusivity and diversity
Embrace diversity, acknowledging the value of different perspectives. Be open to learning from others and considerate of varying viewpoints.
No hate speech, bullying, harassment, or threats
This includes but is not limited to slurs, abusive language, aggressive posturing, intimidation, and any other provocations. These behaviors have no place here.
No spam
Avoid flooding the community with repetitive content. Self-promotion should be thoughtful, limited, and consistently on-topic.
Privacy and Safety
Do not share others' personal information without consent or permission for details people prefer to keep private.
Report any threats, harassment, or harmful behavior to moderators immediately.
Stay on-topic
Keep posts and comments relevant to the original topic so conversations stay focused.
Use discretion
Some topics can become emotionally charged. Tread carefully and be prepared to pause or withdraw from inflammatory exchanges.
Final Thoughts on Community Guidelines
By embracing these guidelines, we will create a welcoming, open, and caring community where people feel safe, supported, and engaged. Our diversity makes us stronger when exchanged with empathy and care.
This is our community! Let's connect, share, and grow while fostering mutual understanding.