As a new member of the list, I certainly would not object to a few ground
rules.
I am a member of a couple of other Christian discussion lists that are
moderated, yet effectively "uncensored" as it applies to discussion topics.
A handful of sensible rules allow the moderator to stay predominantly in the
background, but still prevent the list from being hijacked by a few with
very narrow agendas.
The rules that seem most effective are:
1. No name calling, put downs, or personal attacks on the character or
motives of any poster
2. Requirement to respond to criticism openly (no "hit and run" attacks)
3. No anonymous postings
4. Posts should generally support, in the moderator's judgment, the goals
established for the list
5. List cannot be used for commercial purposes.
--Scott Tucker
-----Original Message-----
From: asa-owner@udomo5.calvin.edu [mailto:asa-owner@udomo5.calvin.edu]On
Behalf Of Jack Haas
Sent: Monday, September 17, 2001 7:00 AM
To: asa@calvin.edu
Subject: The ASA List
Greetings:
I have been concerned with some discussion on the ASA list in the recent
period. As one of the founders of the group I hoped that it would not end up
at the rhetorical level of much (not all) of talk.origins.
It was clear when we started that there would be sharp debates between
advocates of old and young earth positions and the never-ending question of
evolution. Intelligent design was sure to create large volumes of
discussion. I was concerned that anti-Christian attitudes of some
participants might be destructive of the kinds of discussion that we wanted
to take place. This has happened to other 'Christian news groups.'
Until recently we have done reasonably well. On occasion, people have
admitted that they were wrong or apologized when they went too far. Today,
the list of contributors is, perhaps, more narrow than is healthy.
I am more disturbed by the disruptive contributions of one or two non-ASA
people who have severe mental problems. Private expressions of concern have
had no effect on those with a 'mission.'
Some are asking whether this sort of rhetoric should be part of a list
supported by a Christian organization. One person has resigned from the ASA
membership in protest. Do we risk failing in 'our mission?'
How should we deal with disruptive participants?
Remember that we are a un-moderated list which allows anyone to join and
participate - without censorship.
Jack Haas
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