[Wikipedia-l] TMC

[Jimmy Wales]

The Cunctator wrote:
> As you can see at http://meta.wikipedia.org/wiki/TMC%27s_sysop_request
> I basically agree, but I'll ask you to consider a more scalable resolution;
> that is, have the Recent Changes etc. display the nickname only, and enforce
> innocuousness of the nickname.

Is the nickname actually in the database?  (Forgive my cluelessness on
this point.)  Or is the nickname just whatever someone happens to
write?

This does sound like a better solution.  I just now asked the
wikitech-l list for an opinion on how hard it would be to change his
name to TMC from Throbbing Monster Cock.  It seems not-impossible but
a pain in the neck.

But if nicknames are in the database, then that sounds like a useful
solution.

> If we can figure out a way to not have to fight, that is, give TMC a
> harmless playpen that doesn't bother anyone else, then I think everyone
> wins. TMC, other than his need for such a playpen, is a good contributor.

That's the strange thing about it, isn't it?  I agree.  His
contributions are fine.

> And I think it's good to have a few antiestablishment figures around. It's a
> sign of a healthy society.

Sure.

> But even if you think my plan has merit, I could certainly understand
> banning TMC in the meantime.

Well, I don't intend to ban him unless he tries to be a pain in the
ass about the name change.

--Jimbo