As is clear, Free Thoughts has been invaded by a troll. Several threads have been entirely diverted and now revolve entirely around this troll. This person uses such horrible things as rape and child abuse as mere gaming ammunition in his/her little flame wars.
Personally, I prefer civil behaviour, and I prefer that it be the choice of individuals rather than an enforced standard. But clearly some individuals are incapable of determining to be civil by their own free will. After all, this is why the world has police officers. People are weak, and can not be responsible.
I hope recent activities in the Free Thoughts forum demonstrate why moderators, such as Banshee (regardless of personal differences a couple of you may have with her or other Moderators) are necessary. Some people just can not be civil without such behaviour being forced on them.
In public space, one has the ability to simply walk away to any other place. But this is not a public place. This is a private place where people come to discuss things because it's where they want to be. They should not have to walk away to any other place.
I think this clearly demonstrates the need for, and purpose of, Moderators in such a medium.
Personally, I prefer civil behaviour, and I prefer that it be the choice of individuals rather than an enforced standard. But clearly some individuals are incapable of determining to be civil by their own free will. After all, this is why the world has police officers. People are weak, and can not be responsible.
I hope recent activities in the Free Thoughts forum demonstrate why moderators, such as Banshee (regardless of personal differences a couple of you may have with her or other Moderators) are necessary. Some people just can not be civil without such behaviour being forced on them.
In public space, one has the ability to simply walk away to any other place. But this is not a public place. This is a private place where people come to discuss things because it's where they want to be. They should not have to walk away to any other place.
I think this clearly demonstrates the need for, and purpose of, Moderators in such a medium.