projectphp
07-19-2005, 11:23 AM
Look, I know it isn't my place to tell anyone how to do anything, but when has that ever stopped me ;)
On this occassion, my issue is with closing threads. IMHO, when one decides to close a thread, the post closing the thread should be very short, explain the reasons for closing and add absolutely no new comments. It is the last point that I have some issue with.
Take http://forums.searchenginewatch.com/showthread.php?p=54937#post54937. Now, granted, the thread should die, but the last post is a virtual essay that ends with "...Now, it's about time to put it to rest and call it a wrap." Ok, fair enough, but if that is the case, why is the last post 11 paragraphs long (excluding quotes)?
IMHO it is poor form to add any extra comments as a thread is shut, as it smacks of "getting the last word in". It is the online equivalent of slamming own the telephone after yelling at someone in an argument, and refusing to answer when they call back.
If a threads gotta go, its gotta go, but if that is the case, surely that must mean there is no need for further comment? If there is, then there should be a right of reply. Again, and maybe it is just my personal preference, but I would prefer to see a debate either killed off with no comment, or if new comments are made, left to run.
I respect the umpire's call on this one, but feel it is an issue that needs to be considered. It certainly isn't an issue that is common (most threads die of natural causes), but on the rare occassion Dr Kevorkian is called in, it would be nice to have it end on a neutral note.
My AU$0.02.
On this occassion, my issue is with closing threads. IMHO, when one decides to close a thread, the post closing the thread should be very short, explain the reasons for closing and add absolutely no new comments. It is the last point that I have some issue with.
Take http://forums.searchenginewatch.com/showthread.php?p=54937#post54937. Now, granted, the thread should die, but the last post is a virtual essay that ends with "...Now, it's about time to put it to rest and call it a wrap." Ok, fair enough, but if that is the case, why is the last post 11 paragraphs long (excluding quotes)?
IMHO it is poor form to add any extra comments as a thread is shut, as it smacks of "getting the last word in". It is the online equivalent of slamming own the telephone after yelling at someone in an argument, and refusing to answer when they call back.
If a threads gotta go, its gotta go, but if that is the case, surely that must mean there is no need for further comment? If there is, then there should be a right of reply. Again, and maybe it is just my personal preference, but I would prefer to see a debate either killed off with no comment, or if new comments are made, left to run.
I respect the umpire's call on this one, but feel it is an issue that needs to be considered. It certainly isn't an issue that is common (most threads die of natural causes), but on the rare occassion Dr Kevorkian is called in, it would be nice to have it end on a neutral note.
My AU$0.02.