There are certain topics that come up again and again which add nothing to the otherwise civil discourse we try to maintain here. These involve old arguments with well-entrenched participants who egg each other on, act in an uncivil manner, and add nothing new to the discussion. They also violate our simple Rules of Conduct by posting new topics that cover old material, by making personal attacks and by attempting to stir up trouble or egg on other people.
Going forward we will enforce these rules much more rigidly, specifically:
- *Do conduct yourself in a professional manner. We support forum members engaging in constructive debate, disagreeing with the opinions of others, or requesting further information or even the citation of references. We do, however, expect this to be done in a respectful manner and without personal attacks. If you don't agree with somebody's post, argue with the post's content, not with the person who made it.
*Do not troll our forums. Posting with the specific intent of stirring up trouble or inciting disruption will not be tolerated.
*Try to avoid duplicating topics already discussed. Use the forum's search function to check if the topic you wish to post exists in the forum already. It's very possible that a similar discussion has already taken place.
These topics have added little to this site besides frustration and enmity, things we strive against. We will always welcome new information on old topics, but will not tolerate new posts that attempt to stir up or inflame old arguments. We are also not the battleground for you or your group's agenda or vendettas. Inter-organizational spats should not be carried over here.
In our four-plus years we have worked hard to create a community of civility and the sharing of knowledge. We ask for your help in maintaining this culture.