re: #15 Charles Johnson

There is an alternative to shutting down comments, but it doesn’t seem to be very popular at corporate websites because it means risking being unpopular — set policies about what’s acceptable and strictly enforce them, including the follow-up work to make sure trolls don’t simply re-register. And don’t be afraid of the fallout.

The problem is that it’s really hard to remain fair. I just left a moderated forum because the place has developed a severe right wing slant.

People on the left and centre are finding it harder and harder to state opinions. They have to be treated as fact, and cited. The person cannot even be suspected of being discourteous to the other posters. Otherwise, public dick slapping by one or more mods.

People on the right do not operate under these strictures.

It used to be almost as interesting and fun as this place to discuss politics and current events. Now it’s rather like Russia under Putin.

I’m not sure what happened.