Josh writes:

>Folks,
>
>I have noticed in the last couple of weeks a disturbing (to me) trend
>in the posting style in s.b.e., namely, a marked decline in politeness.
>I certainly don't want to point the finger at particular posters (I
>mean, that sort of defeats the purpose, doesn't it?), but I would ask,
>on my own behalf, and on behalf of the readership, that you each think
>carefully before you post your posts. Are you being snarky? Snippy?
>Supercilious? 
>
>In short, are you being a jerk?
>
>If so, stop. There's no need to point out to someone that s/he is an
>idiot; it's okay to suggest that they may be mistaken about something.
>
>It's an old saw, but good advice nonetheless: If you can't say semething
>nicely, don't say it. Please.
>
>*hugs*
>
>Your beloved moderator

I would like to not only second your comments but to suggest to The Beloved
Moderator that he begin rejecting postings that contain such ad hominen
comments.

[moderator's note: I breathe a sigh of relief that I am not the only
one to perceive the general loss of civility. I do point out, however,
that I am not empowered (by the charter) to reject articles on the
basis of style -- alas -- but only on the basis of content. I do admit,
however, that I have on occasion stepped into a debate to urge the
combatants to tone it down, or even to let it go for a bit. I dislike
having to do this, of course; it's much better for the group as a whole
and for posters as individuals to recognize when they're being impolite
and for them (posters) to rectify that to begin with. Otherwise, they
run the risk of being perceived as whiny/snippy/twinky jerks. And the
group becomes not much better than talk.origins, That Festering Sewer.
And we don't want THAT, now do we? - JAH]


The rejections don't have to be permanent, simply a request for a rewrite using
a more professional tone -- and not allow such submissions to be posted to the
newsgroup until they have been rewritten in more a civil manner.

The recent comments have been childish and do no one any good, especially the
authors.

Wirt Atmar
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