To: thecow who wrote (22867 ) 10/18/2001 11:36:17 AM From: PMS Witch Read Replies (3) | Respond to of 110652 Off topic ... First, I want to say that I think you are doing a great job of heading COMPUTER LEARNING. I believe that SI consists of two types of threads: co-operative and adversarial. I also believe COMPUTER LEARNING is a co-operative thread. Some other examples...Subject 30287 Daily Story CornerSubject 18946 Dream MachineSubject 22462 Favorite QuotesSubject 7983 ; LAUGHTER IS THE BEST MEDICINESubject 36860 SI HighlightsSubject 36542 Things That Amuse MeSubject 20243 Car Nut CornerSubject 22366 COMPUTER LEARNINGSubject 21817 Things That Annoy Me There are many others, but I only follow these. In most cases, visitors to these threads do not arrive armed, with a chip on their shoulder, and loaded for bear. Usually, they have discovered something and wish to share it. Even a few who are locked in serious combat on other threads lay down their swords and shields and engage in friendly conversation. (Although I'm sure it's hard for some.) The adversarial threads serve a valid purpose too. Exposing one's opinions to the criticism of those who have taken opposing positions is an efficient way of discovering the weaknesses in one's arguments, and perhaps one's thinking and logic too. Also, it's a quick way of uncovering overlooked facts, as these are often provided to support what is said. And for those days nothing goes right, the toast burns, and the boss chews you out, those threads provide an outlet for frustrations and irritations. They are a good place to practice behaviour, that in person, would lead to blood spilling or lawsuits. On slow days, they can also be entertaining too. I believe you are correct in trying to maintain the friendly atmosphere on COMPUTER LEARNING. I also believe that you've done a good job of communicating your motives for discouraging behaviour which may harm the spirit of your thread. When a few people begin posting to COMPUTER LEARNING, they may carry with them a posting style developed on other threads which may seem inappropriate here. Since everyone has something of value to contribute, we, as COMPUTER LEARNING participants, should welcome them and as far as possible, make them feel so comfortable on this thread that they soon realize that an aggressive posting style is not necessary. Again, thank-you for your time and effort on COMPUTER LEARNING. Cheers, PW. P.S. Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be shredded in the cross-fire!