Posted by verne on March 16, 2005, at 21:40:54
In reply to Re: but we can do some of that now, posted by alexandra_k on March 16, 2005, at 12:57:02
I think I know what you're getting at Alexandra. The debate about a "democracy" at psychobabble is a "bad-faith" fiction.
It seems like real-world ideas are encouraged, and even inserted into the babble petri dish and allowed to flourish, not for the purpose of any real change but for the sheer spectacle of watching the petri-mites wrestle over the unattainable or some scrap of an ideal.
I don't think the elaborate "civility rules" have as much to do with making this site supportive as to do with creating friction. The long blocks are more designed for the optimal, maximum, crazy-making potential than for remedy, peace, or reform.
I'm a long-time member at another site that has yet to ban or block anyone in several years. Thousands come and go. Once in awhile, a post is edited. The uncivil offender leaves in frustration, outraged that any part of their post was removed. It deflates them. Any conflict dissipates and the deleted poster, if they come back, conforms to a civilized discussion - after all, they want to be heard.
Whereas, here, a block is a challenge and call to arms, for not just the errant poster but anyone remotely interested. (lots of collateral damage) Rather than just delete a few words, move on, and treat people with respect (like adults) there's a kind of parental "scolding" and, of course, the fight is on.
The current system of blocks isn't designed to protect anyone or bring peace to the community but to maximize tension and conflict. I have to view this model as a success since the purpose and goal have been realized.
a petri mite.
poster:verne
thread:458927
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20050219/msgs/471896.html