Internetworkers: http://www.ibiblio.org/internetworkers/

[Thomas <thomas AT tbeckett.com>]

Someone, it doesn't matter who, wrote:
> Good god man, shut the fuck up if you're going to spout off without 
> reading it.   either that or you read it and you've flunked reading 
> comprehension 101 from 2nd grade oval tests.  

I would like to take this opportunity to add a word in favor of civility 
in this forum, this community.  Many of us hold strong views and enjoy 
spirited discussion here.  But personal attacks and other forms of 
vitriol do not raise the level of debate.  Please think about your words 
before you hit "send".  They affect everyone here, not just the person 
to whom you are responding.

One guideline frequently cited is to not say anything in virtual space 
that you wouldn't say to the same audience in person.  I think, 
actually, a higher standard is needed.  Some folks have a more assertive 
style that may play well in real life but, loses nuance and humor in the 
world of bare-text communication.

In this context, I adopt the simple touchstone of "assume goodwill". 
This means to assume that all statements made here are made in a spirit 
of goodwill, and to respond accordingly.  It also means to assume that 
spirit of goodwill in your statements and actions here.

There is no topic to be OT from here.  This isn't a tea party, 
definitely have at it when stating your views.  But it isn't a truck 
stop, either.  Be professional, be thoughtful, be cool.

Thanks for your kind attention.

TaB