So, if there was ever a need to choose between what is good for reader and what is good for writers, I favour the former.

I note the use of the word 'if'.... But is there now such a need?

If Joe's 'indexing' is thought to be important - no one is suggestion that it should not take place . The only fairly modest suggestion is that the originators consent is first sought. Is that really such a terrible suggestion?

To my mind - any changes here to a contribution that are imposed by a fellow poster without the original poster's knowledge or permission - is censorship.

There may be rare occasions where such imposition can be justified - but is this 'indexing' really one of them?