Posted by Estella on August 28, 2006, at 3:05:35
In reply to Re: blocks and support, posted by Dr. Bob on August 27, 2006, at 1:16:30
> > How much have you done with respect to seeing whether there is a systematic dependency between the blocking system and the effects?
> I haven't done anything systematic. But that's a good idea for a project...
Yeah, you would need to do something systematic in order to support your claim that your blocking system reduces the incivilities on the boards. You do keep saying that, but really it is an empirical matter. Also... Assuming there are systematic dependencies (which I think there probably are) between the blocking system and the positive and negative effects of the blocking system it would be an empirical matter whether you have hit upon the best balance in the maximisation of good / minimisation of harm trade off.
One way to approach the issue...
Do you keep stats on who gets blocked, when, and for how long? It might be possible to see whether people tend to escalate or tow the line as a result of blocking. Also... It would be interesting to know how many people stop posting for a time or perminanently following blocks.
> There could be disagreement regarding "valid and well-reasoned"
There could be, but there are objective measures of both. They are both technical terms and what people have been asking for... Is to be allowed to offer constructive criticism on the politics board. To learn how to do constructive critiques instead of being blocked out of existence.
> but I think that sounds a lot better than just negative comments...
I never advocated allowing name calling etc on the politics board. We have been asking to be allowed to CRITIQUE policies and institutions.
poster:Estella
thread:670602
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/admin/20060826/msgs/680737.html