Date: 12 Dec 96 03:43:11 EST
From: Chris Burford <100423.2040-AT-CompuServe.COM>
Subject: M-I: How the list argues


I agree with this observation from Rob Schaap:

>>> this list argues at fever pitch, but rarely leaves the
tracks.  For instance, in my few months here,I've been witness to vitriolic
exchanges (Rose v. Godena; Lou p. v. Bobs Scheetz and Malecki etc etc), yet
have not seen the list deteriorate.  The odd indignant shriek and
inappropriate label does not put these people off, and eventually newcomers
like me get value from their posts again and again (unfortunately, I'm
still not sure they get value from each other).

Me, I'm glad I have access to 'em all.
<<<


It is normal in a dynamical system like this that the brew will from time to time
boil over, spit or spat. This is part of testing the limits of reasonable conflict.
Every so often people will protest that a method of struggle is unfair.

The long term trend, now that there is a lid on the maximum number of posts to 
prevent internet addicts who can spend 5 hours a day glued to the screen winning, 
the long term trend is for increasing quality of posts. 

This is a non-profit making market environment, and putting effort in quality is
a sensible market strategy in a highly competitive market. 

It is better to spend a bit
of extra time writing something you have self-respect for, in the hope that
you will connect with even two or three in the same spirit, than to waste effort
on flame wars. 

There will probably be further progress in 1997.

Chris Burford
London.


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