So, Shambles, I guess you have me over a barrel. For me to defend my actions, I'd have to post the very messages I deleted. I'm not going to do that.

We delete messages for two reasons:

1. They hurt somebody
   I'm especially troubled by messages that target people who are facing death or other personal tragedy, or the ones that are clearly racist.
2. They cause trouble, discord, consternation, or other problems for our community
   I know you've seen this happen. There have been times when things can get pretty nasty around here.

Generally, we delete messages in response to complaints, but we also delete some messages before they give people reason for complaint.

You question why our posting guidelines have increased over the years, and I guess I'd say we didn't anticipate the problems we'd have, and we didn't want to post a list of suggestions for the troublemakers. Generally, I think our guidelines and our editing work pretty well. I don't think we're too strong in our editing, but I suppose that's a matter of opinion. Whatever the case, I certainly don't think our editing fits the dramatic descriptions you've given. From the picture you paint, one would think we were the Holy Inquisition, or something.

I think the environment at Mudcat is what I'd call "controlled anarchy." We leave most things alone, but have to help things along here and there. If you find that's too restrictive, feel free to go to rec.music.folk. We certainly wouldn't want you to waste your time here if you feel uncomfortable. We don't want you to be unhappy.

-Joe Offer, Witchfinder General?-

I know we have beaten this topic to death, but the logical and verbal gymnastics involved are fun. Besides, I don't take Shambles seriously... ;-)