Commenting FAQ
“5 Minutes with Joe” is a curated conversation, which means that some comments are edited or pruned. Because:
1. The Web address bears my name, Joe Wilcox, which I will protect from libelous or disparaging comments. Criticism is welcome when there is supported argument or facts. Comment trolls who ridicule or make unsupported accusations aren’t welcome. 5 Minutes with Joe is like my home, where I invite you to come by and chat. Trolls come to dump their garbage on my lawn or—gasp—living room. They also beat up my guests. To the trolls I say this: Dump garbage in your home—from your own blog you can mouth off. You’re not welcome here.
2. Identified commenters are encouraged, anonymous commenters are prohibited. I am clearly identified. There is nothing anonymous about my writing. Commenters here or those posting at other blogs will hold me accountable for my writing. I expect no less accountability from 5 Minutes with Joe commenters. Accountability requires identity.
3. 5 Minutes with Joe has a managing editor—Me! I edit my own content for clarity, readability/listenability and style. I curate audio, video or written posts until they’re ready for public presentation. Comment curation is just another form of editing.There will be notation should a comment be edited but not removed. If you don’t like the approach, if I curate your comment into the trashbin, please email and make a case for your comment.
I encourage readers to engage in lively discussion. Occasional shouting or a little rough housing isn’t discouraged. But, please, beat up on me or other folks somewhere else.
That said, 5 Minutes with Joe is a crowdfunded site. Readers donating $1,000 or more a year receive special consideration—they’re rewarded freedom to comment, so long as comments don’t violate terms of service (which will be posted concurrently with the crowdfunding contribution option) or a post prohibits all comments.
Joe Wilcox
September 6, 2010
