Rules for posting

Originally posted February 12, 2008, but moving this up to the top of the blog again for a reminder.

I hate to have to do this, but it seems that this website has grown to a point where I need to lay out some rules regarding the posting of blogs and comments. This is not directed to any specific person or post. I've been thinking I need to write this for several months now.

I do not like to censor posts or comments. The only posts I've ever deleted were my own. The only comments I've ever deleted until today have been spam. I want this to be an open forum where people can intelligently discuss ideas, philosophy, news, and opinion.

So, here are the rules:

1. Don't post hate speech. You know what that means. If you have to ask, then don't post.
2. It's okay to disagree with me or any other poster. Keep it civil.
3. Don't post spam.
4. Don't post personal attacks on non-public people. It's okay to ridicule someone's behavior if that behavior is in the public domain - such as when they make racist statements or commit a crime. I don't want to hear about their sexual habits or divorces.
5. If you want to attack a public person, fine, but keep it on-topic, and stand behind what you allege. If you have proof or evidence, put it forward. If not, at least use your real name and accept responsibility for your words.
6. There is a difference between profanity (ok in moderation) and obscenity (not cool). Don't make me spell it out.
7. Don't post anything you don't have the rights to post. Get copyright permission or have a fair use rationale such as identification, newsworthiness, excerpt, etc.
8. Keep it on-topic. Don't post unrelated comments. Post a blog, or email one of us to suggest a topic.
9. No shills. Don't pretend to be someone you aren't. Don't register multiple user accounts.


Here are the posting limits set up for WhosPlayin:
- Anonymous users can only post comments, but they must first be approved by a moderator.
- Any user with a valid email address can register.
- Registered users can post comments without pre-approval. Moderators can remove these comments later for rule violations
- Users who have been around for awhile have blog posting privileges.

Threats:
- Moderators may remove comments and posts for any violation of the rules.
- Moderators may edit posts to remove copyrighted or patently offensive content. Edits will be noted as such.
- Users can be removed or demoted for egregious or repeat violations.
- Posters of racist, bigoted, or other reprehensible content will be mercilessly ridiculed and permanently banned.

Bitch and moan:
"I'm not sure if my post is allowed?"
Email the webmaster: webmaster@whosplayin.com I'm happy to review what you've got.

"But I'm afraid of retribution. People need to know what this politician is doing."
If you have a tip for a news story about malfeasance or unethical behavior, send me the details by email or in a private message. I'm happy to keep your identity a secret, and we'll figure out how to substantiate your claims before posting.

"Dude, you're censoring me. What about free speech?"
This is my website that I pay for out of my own pocket each month. The ads barely begin to cover my expense. Buy your own website and say whatever you want. Play by the rules, and you're welcome to post here.

"You're a hypocrite. I've read posts here that crossed the line."
I try to learn from my mistakes. I've deleted and/or pocketed more of my own posts than I care to disclose. There are probably more that I will delete. If you have a problem with something, leave a comment or send an email. When in doubt, see previous rule.

"I want a post removed for ______________ reason."
Leave a comment on the post, or email the webmaster (webmaster@whosplayin.com) with your rationale. Include your full name, email address, and phone number where you may be contacted.

"This website is partisan and slanted."
Yep. So?

Thanks for your consideration.

That is all.