The forum should distinguish between posts that are obscene or hateful and those that are merely disrespectfully abusive or contemptuous. I read an uncivil exchange btw two users, got ready to flag, but the reasons offered did not cover the situation, so did not flag. Guidelines exhort users to be civil and respectful. The only options offered as a reason for flagging were that a post was offensive or hateful. We need to ditch the hate speech talk. The posts in question were mutually disrespectful, even contemptuous, but did not rise to the level of âhate speechâ as popularly used. I recommend that you create a category denoting âuncivilâ, meaning merely disrespectful. Since reading the exchange that provoked this response to Feedback, I have encountered a few more exchanges with a similar display of attitude. This sort of thing accomplishes nothing and may make some people simply bow out rather than be subjected to someone elseâs contemptuous display. Your same rule for âhate speechââwhatever that isâshould apply. A sufficient number of flags prompts administrator action.
It is disheartening to see this on a site that was intended for policy formation. I only came on here to collaborate on actual policy proposals, but it appears many are just venting anger. Hoping to see more solution-oriented contributions to policy here.
Disheartening, true, but expected. This site invites one and all to discuss policy proposals, and people bring opposing ideas to the table. Unfortunately, incivility is a prominent trait in our contemporary culture, even among âgoodâ, educated people. I think there are a couple main contributors to this. First, schools donât teach logic anymore, so people donât learn how to argue on the merits and spread their ideas through persuasion. Second, the emphasis on the unquestioned validity of a personâs subjective feelings promotes emotional infantility which entails a heaping helping of narcissism. People afflicted with this belief pattern have a low tolerance for frustration and react aggressively and rudely to anyone who expresses opposing opinions. A sign of the times, I guess.
The fact that we have an opportunity to bring opposing views to the table is the only way effective policies can be formed. I have already made revisions to my proposed policy based on feedback that pointed out realities I may not have considered without the views of others, and I have seen others do the same.
People are rightfully angry and upset about a lot of things. Thatâs why weâre here. There are other sites for people to vent and blame if thatâs all they want to do. Hopefully this can remain a constructive platform.