Comments Policy

Well, there is none. Just a few statements on the issue.

As one can see, I rarely moderate the comments.  The only time I’ve used my divine hand is when there is obvious spam or when someone makes a comment that I feel is racist.  Besides that my policy has for the most part been hands off for a variety of reasons.

First, there are too many to monitor and I don’t have the time or desire to read through them. Second, it seems that the several people who do regularly comment seem to be enjoying themselves. I figure, why spoil the fun. Third, I want to keep things as open as possible. This requires that I don’t make any judgments about who crosses the line and when. Plus the rhetorical response seems to be accusations of bias and favoritism. However true they latter may be (I’ve never claimed nor would I ever claim to be objective. I find “objectivity” meaningless anyway.), I don’t want to play schoolyard monitor. If someone kicks sand in your face, either kick back or walk away. I will of course give my view at times.

With all that said, I do want to make a few statements to new and reoccurring commenters.

1. Since I’m not moderating comments and it has become a free for all, any comments made are the opinion of the commenter alone and not that of Sean’s Russia Blog.
2. If you comment, you do so at your own risk. If people verbally jump all over you like rabid dogs, don’t say I didn’t warn you.
3. As one can see, flame wars are ablaze in the comment’s section. The best way to avoid getting burnt is don’t respond to provocation. There are several sensible people who comment on SRB. There are also flat out provocateurs who apparently hide behind “anonymous” and a variety of sockpuppets. The best thing to do is ignore these maniacal egoists. Just remember sticks and stones . . .
4. And please, please try not to make SRB too hostile of a place. I appreciate that many of you have turned SRB into a virtual meeting place. It would be unfortunate if a few made the place so poisonous that people are just turned off.
5. Have fun!