Contribute positively
The golden rule of this blog, as far as comments are concerned, is that every comment should contribute positively to the discussion.
Here are a list of things that contribute positively to the conversation:
- Kindness
- Humour
- Novelty
- Creativity
- Helpfulness
- Cleverness
- Insight
And some things that don’t:
- Bigotry
- Small-mindedness
- Creepiness
- Repetition
- Repetition
- Wilful bloody-mindedness
- Spam
Comments that do not contribute positively to the conversation may be deleted on the whim of the moderator (i.e. me, Skud).
Unacceptable comments, safer space, and trigger warnings
I try to maintain a space that’s as safe as I can manage for all my friends and friends-to-be. Bigotry and *isms, including (but not limited to) sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, ageism, sizeism, etc. are not welcome here, and may result in your comment being deleted or edited. This includes both outright slurs and comments which tend to support *isms, even if expressed in apparently inoffensive terms.
That said, things occasionally slip through moderation. I’d like to ask everyone here to call out bigoted or otherwise problematic behaviour if they see it. You’re especially encouraged to act as an ally when it comes to comments that don’t directly relate to you. That is to say, let’s have each other’s backs.
If you are discussing or linking to something which may be upsetting to some readers (for instance discussion of sexual assault, graphic violence or hate crimes, suicide and self harm, death or harm to children) please provide a “Trigger warning” alongside the link. If you don’t, I may add one for you.
Anonymity and pseudonymity
Anonymous comments are not permitted here. You must use a name of some sort (a pseudonym is fine) and provide a real email address (visible only to me and any other moderators I appoint). Please use the same name and email address each time you comment, to build continuity and reputation.
(On occasion, anonymous comments may be permitted, but this will be the exception rather than the rule.)
Time limits
Posts are set to turn off comments after a certain time. If you want to comment on something after its time limit has elapsed, please post on the latest Open Thread or drop me an email.
My blog, my rules
At the end of the day, I’m responsible for what goes on here, and will do what I think is necessary to keep the comment threads ticking along smoothly.