Posted by Susan J on November 3, 2003, at 9:59:18
In reply to Re: Civility, posted by Dr. Bob on October 31, 2003, at 11:29:17
>> You think that the culture here fosters discontent? Not that discontent is inevitable?
>
> Bob
>> I don't think it's an *either/or* situation. Yes, discontent among posters is inevitiable. But I think the culture here, a subjective civility standard, as well meaning as I know it is, inflames normal everyday discontent.I think the civility standard is noble and very well meaning. I *love* courtesy and compassion myself. But civility, like love, can be a weapon, too.
As a mental health forum, with posters dealing with sensitive issues and who have sensitive needs, I think this forum needs to be held to a higher standard than an everyday board might be. A subjective civility standard can and has wrought havoc here.
I know I keep going back to legal analogies, but that's what I know. If a person is having a heart attack on the side of the road, nobody has a legal duty to provide assistance, CPR, or whatever to that dying person. But if a bystander does jump in to help, the bystander is legally required to do *no further harm* to the dying person.
So aren't these boards kind of jumping in to help posters by providing a supportive environment? And if so, then I think these boards have a duty to:
do no further harm.
Susan
poster:Susan J
thread:274945
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20031008/msgs/276063.html