Do we allow back-seat moderating/policing?

[autofusion]

Staff, not to mention that I read some posts from regular users alleging that another would be violating a rule or two. A perfect example is one user (not even a member of the staff) reminding another to try to not to double-post. I understand that most users are looking out for each other, but there are a few websites here and there where back-seat moderation can sometimes be an issue. I'd like to get your thoughts about this.

 

[Duke]

For minor issues, we do not mind a polite word between users, in the "Hey, buddy, that's not such a good idea" vein. More as a citizen-to-citizen kind of thing to help keep the peace.

However, serious issues that need staff attention should always be reported. And we do frown upon self-appointed deputies who make it a priority to correct others.

 

[Pupik]

For things like double-posting, or abusive language, we somewhat encourage all members to advise others. That is how we build a true community that makes people want to stay.

What we (the moderation staff) do not want, are people creating their own policies and attempting enforcement without consent of the staff or Jordan, the site's owner.

In an ideal forum world, we would not have to moderate very much, everyone would be clear about the rules. But we can't be everywhere at once, so some times it's nice that others can help with constructive criticism.

If you or anyone feels that someone is crossing the line with their moderation habits (whether official duties or not) let us know with the Report icon on your lower right.

[tree'd by Duke, thanks to unforgiving phone cut-and-paste]