Code of Conduct Thoughts

I enjoy a good debate now and then, and certainly have a go ‘round about Net civility vs. censorship is a worthy topic. However, the discussions this week about the proposed Code of Conduct by Jimmy Wales and Tim O’Reilly by the dissenters has reached a level of absurdity not even worthy of debate. (Although originated by Blogher several years ago - hmmm, interesting why the NY Times only picks up the story about Kathy Sierra when the “great white men” weigh in . . .)

Here is a “dissection” of the code of conduct written by Tristen Louis. As usual with the Internet idealists, civility immediately raises censorship flags -- and they shout it loudly. What is hardly ever discussed is the dampening effect that the shouting has for potential participants. Since only one out of one hundred readers comments on blogs, I think our focus ought to be on how to make it easier for those who hesitate, who may be concerned about becoming a target of criticism for their opinions, this is particularly true for women bloggers and participants who are disproportionately targets of cyberstalkers. And if you have any doubt about the very real threat to women bloggers from nutjob commentators, take a peek at this video from CNN here.

It is possible, no, even more than that, probable, that some bloggers will remove comments that simply don’t care for from their blogs under this proposed Code of Conduct. I’m willing to live with that risk if the overall benefit is greater civility and more women participants.

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

Code of Conduct Thoughts