censorship

[Beth.Rapp.Young@Rollins.Edu]

First I'd like to make it clear that I think the "no-flame" option is
not the best of the compromises that centaurs have suggested, even though
it seems that some steps to control traffic on the list might be in order.

BUT I think that comparisons between the "no-flame" option and censorship
are misplaced.  No one (unless I've missed something vital by my finely
tuned delete fingers) has suggested that anyone preview all the messages
and censor those which are not deemed to be on-topic or useful.  I'm not
even sure that's possible.  The most strictly moderated list I read,
WMST-L, consistently carries off-topic messages, usually followed by a
stern warning from the list moderator.  The procedure works great for
that list, but no one has suggested it (this time around) for wcenter, 
and it probably wouldn't be right for this list.

No matter what the default, the _individual_ will still decide what to
say, and to whom to say it.  The default will only affect how much typing
will need to be done in the process (with software also playing a role).

Last year when I subscribed to wcenter, this topic did come up, and a
moderator may have been suggested then.  I unsubscribed soon after,
being unable to keep up with the volume of messages.  I can't speak
for the entire history of wcenter back through time, but it seems to
me that if the topic does arise regularly, maybe this is a sign that
something needs to be done (even if that "something" is no more than
greater diligence on our own parts).

I personally have received great benefit from posts answering questions,
describing writing center activities, offering syllabi & materials,
and cheering me up with humor.  I doubt I would miss the "send me
a copy, too" posts.  Maybe such posts are the favorites of everyone
else and should be encouraged for that reason.  I don't know.  

And perhaps asking centaurs to carefully consider the potential benefit
to the list of their posts before sending them IS too much of a burden.
But no matter what the default, individuals will make decisions for
themselves, not some faceless mechanical librarian/censor.

I guess now I'll make the decision to stop posting on this subject,
so my own posts don't exceed someone's quota :)

Beth
Beth Rapp Young
Rollins College
Winter Park, FL
BYoung@Rollins.edu