In my post “Online Civility and Out-of-Line Comments,” I describe my early reluctance to enable comments on Laughing Water. I also explain why I think that, going forward, a code of civility is absolutely necessary for allowing others to join the conversation here. In addition to requiring the use of first and last real names under all but the most extenuating circumstances, I ask commentators to “read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest” the four principles below and make them their own. I have borrowed and adapted these from the “Comment Code of Conduct” for God’s Politics, a blog by Jim Wallis and his friends:
I will express myself with civility, courtesy, and respect for every member of the Laughing Water online community, especially toward those with whom I disagree – even if I feel disrespected by them. (Romans 12:17-21)
I will express my disagreements with other community members’ ideas without insulting, mocking, or slandering them personally. (Matthew 5:22)
I will not exaggerate others’ beliefs or make unfounded prejudicial assumptions based on labels, categories, or stereotypes. I will always extend the benefit of the doubt. (Ephesians 4:29)
I understand that comments are reviewed and that abusive comments are subject to deletion. Repeat offenders will be blocked from making further comments. (Proverbs 18:7)
