I try to read all the posts on a subject and all subsequent and multiple threads to get a balanced viewpoint of what's going on. That's one reason I am not a fan of people continuing what started as public disagreements of a topic into private pm's. I've noticed time and time again, that when arguments get heated, then the sneak personal attacks by pm really get going. I admire posters who at least have the gumption to say what they really think of someone in public and not behind their back. If it isn't fit for public consumption than maybe it is best left unsaid altogether.
I understand the locking of threads that get out of control. Sometimes, I don't think deleting them altogether is a good idea. I think this may actually add fuel to the fire by leaving a very one sided version of what has taken place for the masses to see. For example, latecomers may come, read what seems a rather tame thread (because most inflammatory and/or offensive remarks have been removed) and wonder why so many posters have been suspended or deleted. Then they get all up in arms, defending them because they didn't see the original insults, profanity and threats.
As adults we should think before we post and be responsible for our words. I say this while admitting that I have also posted remarks in haste that I have later regretted. A couple of times I have wanted to go back and delete posts but it was after the half hour time limit for editing. Oh well, that's the price I pay, post in haste, repent at leisure.
Perhaps if threads that become locked are allowed to remain for all posterity to see, it would actually reduce the number of other posters who feel compelled to chime in and defend when they don't really know the whole story. Let people's own words try, convict and execute them in the court of public opinion.
Threatening people or their families by public post or pm is so out of line and not cool (not to mention a crime). I have often said that if anyone sent me such a pm, I would have no problems cutting and pasting it to the public forum. Hang them by their own pertard! Wouldn't it be better to allow the damning words to stay for all to see, sort of like the wall of shame. Then maybe people would think twice before clicking the "submit post" button.
Cog
