> Why not let only posts with classifiers get through, write this as a foot
note
> at the bottom of the FAQ and if they don't read it, they can't post.
Michael Butler replied:
> Hmmm, now how do we handle topic drift? See, it doesn't stop boneheads
> from posting off-topic replies. And it doesn't stop boneheads from
> monkey-see-monkey-do use of the *wrong* headers. But it *is* a speed bump
> that might slow down drive-by posters.
>
> Also bear in mind that categories are more arbitrary than we are often
> aware of, and that categories that make sense at time t may seem
> ridiculous at time t+n.
How about we create an FAQ that's sent when you first subscribe that briefly
answers those 'basic' questions we all find so annoying. Split the FAQ into
sections that also tell you the correct classifier for each topic, followed
by a short description and then a list command that allows you to request a
more comprehesive FAQ on that topic. We could do the same for various papers
(extropian principles, dynamic optimism, etc.) That way anyone who reads it
will know that the information is there, and if they still post basic
questions, we can just point them in the direction of the correct FAQ. We
can let list members decide on what to put in these FAQs (when a basic
consensus is reach on that subject and we want to move on) and also what
classifiers to use. Not only will this help both new and current members,
but we'll be building a comprehensive database of ideas in the process.
> I know, I know--one miracle at a time.
Well if they get through all this and still post off-messages, it's probably
a good idea to just ignore them.
--Wax