Adding a “safe haven” forum for discussion of tweaks?


I think we can all agree that threads about tweaks like fuses, stones, mats, power conditioners etc. stir up all kinds of controversy, conflict and ill will.

 

Short of banning discussion of these controversial topics, is there another solution to this problem?

 

I got this idea from teo_audio’s comments about a solution implemented at Canuck audio on another thread:

 

“Canuck audio tames it by having a cable and tweak area for threads. Where any counter to the idea that such things are functional (in attempt or in analysis), is not tolerated.

 

Meaning.. threads where people discuss tweaks, or mods or cables and so on, if a naysayer posts there, and interrupts the discussion, in any way, they get their posts deleted. And...if the given naysayer can’t hold their tongue, after said deletion-ish warnings..... they will, rapidly, via any repeats in behavior, find themselves banned from the forum. They have to grow up, or get lost.”

 

You may not like parts of his description, but I think the idea has real merit.

 

I propose a new “safe haven” sub-forum, with some special rules, for the discussion of tweaks. These rules would ONLY apply to this specific sub-forum, the current rules would continue as they are in all other areas.

 

The special rules would be along these lines:

 

Posts that categorically deny the possibility of tweaks having any effect or value are not allowed.

 

Posts proclaiming tweaks to be “scams” “cons” etc. are not allowed.

 

Posts that directly state, or imply, that another poster is lying, are not allowed.

 

Posts that make absolute negative statements like “Science proves it can’t work.” are not allowed.

 

Posts demanding measurements, controlled listening tests etc. are not allowed.

 

Posts that express skepticism (without making absolute negative statements), ask tough questions, or request more information are welcome.

 

Of course, some who hold the above opinions may object, but they would still be able to express those opinions in all other parts of the forum, just like they always have.

 

What do you think?

tommylion

It won’t happen because of the first amendment. Audiogon is a buisness and has to follow the dictates of their lawyers as not to get sued.

The Bill of Rights are restrictions on government, not Audiogon. This is essentially private property, and you don’t have any guarantee of free speech here.

Post removed 

Posts that express skepticism (without making absolute negative statements), ask tough questions, or request more information are welcome.

 

I happen to consider that concession is reasonably sufficient for most contributers to not have to be concerned about getting banned for harbouring thought crimes.

In the meantime, I might dust off my copy of Animal Farm.

The Bill of Rights are restrictions on government, not Audiogon. This is essentially private property, and you don’t have any guarantee of free speech here.

Exactly right. More than a few of you seem to not know this. Private entities make their own Bill of Rights. Your right to free speech as stated in our country’s Bill of Rights does not extend to said entities. When you join a social media outlet, you agree to and abide by their rules, or they reserve the right to ban you. If you don't care for their rules, you have the freedom of choice to not join. This is a fact some of you should remember the next time a thread gets political and certain members start griping about how our right to free speech is being stifled on Twitter or Facebook. When it comes to these entities, you never had it to begin with. And no, I don’t agree with you. You’re not obligated to read every poster. Don’t like what someone has to say, takes less than a second to skip by it. Even less time to not respond.

 

 

thecarpathian and builder3,

Thank you for your thoughtful insight, responses and lessons. Much appreciated.

But it still is a shame that when discourse is added to like minded sharing discussion, the moderators get triggered somehow and shut it down.

And the one(s) that do bring discourse know this and said like minded sharing discussions are stopped, abrutly.