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What is a Forum

John Hale
John Hale
Yarn Weaver

Apr-30-2005 13:58

Over the course of this site's growth and my observation of it, I have noticed certain difficulties people have with the basic nature of a public forum. Instead of spreading the argument over several threads, I thought I should post the actual definition and let us all talk. Here it is, courtesy of our good friend Merriam-Webster.

Main Entry: fo·rum
Pronunciation: 'fOr-&m, 'for-
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural forums also fo·ra /-&/
Etymology: Latin; akin to Latin foris outside, fores door -- more at DOOR
1 a : the marketplace or public place of an ancient Roman city forming the center of judicial and public business b : a public meeting place for open discussion c : a medium (as a newspaper) of open discussion or expression of ideas
2 : a judicial body or assembly : COURT
3 a : a public meeting or lecture involving audience discussion b : a program (as on radio or television) involving discussion of a problem usually by several authorities.

Replies

John Hale
John Hale
Yarn Weaver

Apr-30-2005 14:15

Right away I notice that I forgot the question mark. Argh.

To be fair, I'm posting my views as comments.

Now, down to business. There are two distinct issues at work in a public forum:

1) Relevance--Comments along a topic must relate to that topic. Note, this works both ways. A person cannot shout anything and expect this to be included in the discussion. Conversely, a large topic cannot be restricted too much (such as limiting to one point of view or only a certain type of comment, such as praise). Both of these things run counter to the basic purpose of a forum.

2) Decorum--Decorum is basic social behavior, what most of us know to expect when you're involved in a public discussion. This area includes civility, respect for the views of others, and most importantly, THICK SKIN. If a person comments, they must expect response and be able to deal with it. This is perhaps the most forgotten part of a forum. If a person makes a comment in obedience with the basic rules of public decorum, respects the topic, and it still offends you, hurts your feelings, or otherwise, that is your problem to deal with. That is the way it is in the real world, and the online world is no different.

It is easy when at a computer to feel private, especially if you are alone in your room. But if you post a comment on the internet, you are becoming part of a public place. You are outdoors and the outdoor rules apply.

One last note: Sleuth has possibly the most well-behaved and mature forum I've ever seen on the internet. Thanks to all contributors and let's keep the conversation flowing.

DaRu
DaRu
Well-Connected

Apr-30-2005 16:24

One reason I love this game is there's no abusive and vulgar language allowed on the boards. Also, if something isn't acceptable, our Moderators takes care of it.

Blaise Joshua
Blaise Joshua

Apr-30-2005 17:11

On relevance, conversation is a fluid affair and evolves as it goes on. A good example is 'The Office' thread I started some time ago. My original intention was simply to find out what the American version was like, but it developed into an interesting discussion on differing types of humour. Trying to restrict the topics too much on threads really kills them, I think, although some balance is obviously required.

I have to agree with yourself and DaRu though, in that every member of the Sleuth community should be proud of the mature and enlightening use of the forum.

jstkdn
jstkdn
Well-Connected

May-1-2005 04:27

Personally, this why I like discussion, even when it is different then my own interest or opinion. I find it an opportunity to learn. And the fact that it happens in a civil way here, is an opportunity in itself. An opportunity to learn, to think, to enjoy. I have little or no respect for people that say "I am right, just because." Every opinion, should be backed with a reason or an argumentation. Those type of opinions may cause me to leave my own opinions, because I know better after having listened to someone else. Some people think that changing your opinion is a weakness, it is of the reason or argumentation is wrong. But to me it is a strength, when it is based on a additional piece of knowledge you gained.

jstkdn
jstkdn
Well-Connected

May-1-2005 04:29

I liked the Office discussion. Simply, because I never watched the office and may have found a new show I could enjoy. I also liked hearing what humour people like, it says a lot about a person, or a culture.


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