Harpgirl

Agree with your assessment entirely--100% dead on for this group.

However, we disagree about the solution. I would look to site owner to resolve by putting something responsible in the faq, as I've said repeatedly here I don't think that lovely piece of fiction Amos penned which was recently added to permathreads clarifies a thing for guest posters and occassional visitors. It simply denies this dark side of Mudcat that keeps repeating itself here.

It has always been my position, as a free speech advocate and writer, that just because we feel certain people *should* be censored for their bad behavior/language, doesn't mean that it is the right way to deal with people in our midst who are creating those kinds of problems. As I think Jeri pointed out, people *do* have a right to behave badly, or use their own strong emotions as a club on everyone around them. Which is happening here.

Thing is, I just don't think censorship is the answer. Sorta like using a sledgehammer for thumbtack.

IMO, it would be much better for site owner to set a new policy, rather then end anonymous posting for good.

And it's a practical matter as well. It will always be easier to make the members behave than it will guests. Members have a long-term interest in improving the forum, guests usually don't.

All