After a number of complaints and a lot of staff discussion, we are revising our current "No Preaching" rule. This is to remove perceived unfairness and ambiguity when it comes to theistic members discussing their beliefs. From now on, the following rule applies:
We are also changing the way we use punishments for rule-breaking. Previously we have used warnings, which then turn into post moderation (all posts have to be approved before they appear), spending time in the Gauntlet, and then banning. Whilst warnings are a good way to remind people to behave, post moderation simply puts a lot more work on the staff, especially when most posts are fine. The Gauntlet was a good experiment, but unfortunately most people who are put there see it as a last chance to abuse rules or complain about staff. It is rare that a person put into the Gauntlet will be allowed back into the regular forums.
Thus, we have decided to scrap post moderation and close The Gauntlet. From now on, the following punishment system will be in place:
- Verbal warnings for first-time offenders.
- Actual warnings for repeat offenders.
- Temporary bans (2 weeks / 1 month) for people who gain a number of warnings in a short period of time, or who show no change in behaviour over a long period of time.
- Permanent ban for people who continue to abuse the rules despite being banned previously.
Of course, the staff reserve the right to skip steps in the punishment system if they feel it is appropriate (e.g. obvious spammers and bots are permanently banned immediately).
The Pit will now be comprised of R'lyeh and Area 69 only.
Quote:Preaching is not permitted. Preaching is defined as a post that fulfills all the following requirements:
- Includes a threat if a particular statement is not agreed with.
- Fails to justify said threat with evidence.
- Is repetitive.
- Directed at forum members, rather than a general description of beliefs.
- Uses negative connotations.
- Is not in response to a query regarding personal beliefs.
We are also changing the way we use punishments for rule-breaking. Previously we have used warnings, which then turn into post moderation (all posts have to be approved before they appear), spending time in the Gauntlet, and then banning. Whilst warnings are a good way to remind people to behave, post moderation simply puts a lot more work on the staff, especially when most posts are fine. The Gauntlet was a good experiment, but unfortunately most people who are put there see it as a last chance to abuse rules or complain about staff. It is rare that a person put into the Gauntlet will be allowed back into the regular forums.
Thus, we have decided to scrap post moderation and close The Gauntlet. From now on, the following punishment system will be in place:
- Verbal warnings for first-time offenders.
- Actual warnings for repeat offenders.
- Temporary bans (2 weeks / 1 month) for people who gain a number of warnings in a short period of time, or who show no change in behaviour over a long period of time.
- Permanent ban for people who continue to abuse the rules despite being banned previously.
Of course, the staff reserve the right to skip steps in the punishment system if they feel it is appropriate (e.g. obvious spammers and bots are permanently banned immediately).
The Pit will now be comprised of R'lyeh and Area 69 only.
