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Subject:Re[2]: List Appropriateness--Listowner From:"Eric J. Ray" <ejray -at- OKWAY -dot- OKSTATE -dot- EDU> Date:Wed, 12 Apr 1995 13:04:04 -0500
The enclosed message was personal, but I'm responding
on the list to clear a couple of common misconceptions.
First, I do not moderate the list. This means that the
first time I see all postings is AFTER they are on the
list. It cannot and will not be any other way on this
list.
Only technical communication-related material is
appropriate. Period. No discussion.
That brings us to the second point. There seems to be
the misconception that the list is a democracy or that
some individuals have a "right" to be heard or to
participate, or even (as in the enclosed E-mail
message) to dictate list policy. That is not the case.
This list is, generally, a benevolent autocracy of
sorts. I believe that the technical/legal condition is
that the list is "not a public forum". That means that
I can and will control the postings through whatever
means necessary. Up to this point is has been through
gentle pressure (with one exception). Using only gentle
pressure will continue if possible.
As always, comment to me off list, don't bother with
flames.
Eric
ejray -at- okway -dot- okstate -dot- edu
TECHWR-L Listowner
______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Re: List Appropriateness
Date: 4/12/95 11:44 AM
The listowner should keep off inappropriate posts. However, if something is
posted it should be considered appropriate and can be responded to. For the
listowner to retroactively say something that has been posted is an
inappropriate posting is way after the fact. If it appears on the list it is
fair game. If it is inappropriate it shouldn't appear on the post.
> Two wrongs do not make a right.
> If somebody ELSE posts something about, say, erotic
> asphyxiation, that does NOT make it OK for you to do
> the same. In any context. Period.
> I just got two flames for reminding people that erotic
> asphyxiation isn't an appropriate topic for TECHWR-L. I
> would have thought that a reminder would be
> unnecessary, but apparently some disagree with me.
> Saying that because you were responding to an
> inappropriate post your post somehow becomes
> appropriate is a remarkably specious argument.
> If it isn't about TECHNICAL COMMUNICATION, DO NOT POST
> IT. Yes, I'm shouting.
> I would STRONGLY suggest exerting some pressure on each
> other, off the list, to stay on topic. Again, as if I
> haven't said it enough, technical communication issues
> will fly with the powers-that-be here--erotic
> asphyxiation most assuredly will not.
> Suggestions, off list, would be welcome. Flames--don't
> waste my time.
> Eric
> ejray -at- okway -dot- okstate -dot- edu
> TECHWR-L Listowner
