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duck · 07-22-2007, 01:14 AM

Great reply, George.

I look at profanity in this analogy: The community here is like a park. We have different types of everything. The park is a very well ordered and lovely place to hang out with intelligence and thoughtful language that pervades all. Swear words are litter. The more swearing that goes on, the more litter is dropped in the park. It certainly takes away the natural beauty and the orderliness of things. The moderators have more work in picking up the litter than actually being able to do the job of keeping the park healthy and growing in the way it should.

I moderate another type of forum elsewhere on the net. It is an interest forum and the language can get a little salty at times. Many times, interpreting the meaning behind the swear words can be very difficult and knowing when to step in as a mod is a tricky business. I try to set an example by not using profanities on the site as much as possible. I will get off when on a rant over something that bothers me, but generally try to avoid the use. Being a teacher, also, I have to believe that good language leads to good conversation and communication.

Good, formal language leads to civility.

Thanks to this site, I am challenged to put my best foot forward to make a point instead of the gutter language I can hear and take part in at the local saloon.

07-22-2007, 01:14 AM	#13 (permalink)
duck Senior Member Join Date: May 2007 Posts: 901	Great reply, George. I look at profanity in this analogy: The community here is like a park. We have different types of everything. The park is a very well ordered and lovely place to hang out with intelligence and thoughtful language that pervades all. Swear words are litter. The more swearing that goes on, the more litter is dropped in the park. It certainly takes away the natural beauty and the orderliness of things. The moderators have more work in picking up the litter than actually being able to do the job of keeping the park healthy and growing in the way it should. I moderate another type of forum elsewhere on the net. It is an interest forum and the language can get a little salty at times. Many times, interpreting the meaning behind the swear words can be very difficult and knowing when to step in as a mod is a tricky business. I try to set an example by not using profanities on the site as much as possible. I will get off when on a rant over something that bothers me, but generally try to avoid the use. Being a teacher, also, I have to believe that good language leads to good conversation and communication. Good, formal language leads to civility. Thanks to this site, I am challenged to put my best foot forward to make a point instead of the gutter language I can hear and take part in at the local saloon.