Oskar Sigvardsson wrote:
On 2/20/07, Marc Riddell michaeldavid86@comcast.net wrote:
But David, this takes me back to the original question: Is it really offensive to call someone abusive? I, personally, would not use the word to define someone, I would, instead, describe their behavior as abusive; but isn't that, in the context of this List, somewhat nickpicky?
It totally depends on the context. If you have a serious complaint that you present properly with solid evidence to back it up, then calling an admin abusive isn't all that big of a deal. If you can't do that well and you are just throwing the word around, then hell yeah it's offensive.
It's still a judgement call that needs to be viewed in context. Enough needs to be let through to provide the context.
Historically speaking, something like 95% of all incidents of people calling admins "rouge" or "abusive" have been wholly without merit. It's been people that have been reverted, people who want a specific agenda but isn't allowed, annoying vandals, etc. After a while, when you hear about an email such as was sent to the list and rejected, you kinda get the picture of what is in it, and you're glad when it is moderated out.
I'm willing to concede your 95% figure, but it's good to know what problems are being raised. The ones who act consistently without merit will soon develop a reputation, and no-one on the list will be willing to take up their cause. A moderator should not be painting a target on himself to take the flaming arrows intended for a less than wholesome complainant.
Ec