Hi all, thanks for all the feedback today. I have put together this code of conduct as a starting point. We can of course modify it over time as needs change, but it would be good to hear if this is on point based on the discussion, or if it needs more work.
Based on suggestions in the feedback thread, I'm proposing this does not go in the sidebar itself. Instead, we keep the current rule "Don't be a dick", and link to this code of conduct. A simple, single rule; more clarity for those that need it.
Please let me know what you think:
Welcome to the Lemmy.nz! We are dedicated to fostering a positive and inclusive environment for all members. To ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience, we require that you adhere to the following code of conduct:
Don’t be a dick: Treat all members with respect and kindness. Avoid personal attacks, harassment, discrimination, hate speech, or any form of abusive behavior. No promotion or encouragement of suicide, self-harm, or violence against others.
Good faith participants only: No trolls, no nazis, no tankies.
Respect Privacy: Do not share personal or confidential information about others (doxing).
No Spamming or Advertising: Avoid excessive posting of the same content or advertisements.
No disinformation: Posting of harmful disinformation is not allowed.
Report Inappropriate Behaviour: If you witness any violations of the code of conduct or encounter any other issues, report them to the community moderators or administrators. Help us maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all.
Failure to comply with this code of conduct may result in temporary or permanent ban, as determined by the moderators or administrators.
This code of conduct was developed in conjunction with the community. If you need more context to understand what the community deems to be acceptable, please see this thread.
Remember that the code of conduct is in place to ensure the best possible experience for all members. By participating in our community, you agree to abide by these guidelines.
Thank you for being a part of the Lemmy.nz community and for helping us create a vibrant and inclusive space for discussion!
I like it but would really like to see advocating violence and/or self harm specifically called out. Some people listen when told to go kill themselves, or when someone rhetorically asks who will rid them of a meddlesome priest.
The only one I’m uncomfortable with is #5. This implies there is always truth and a ‘right’ answer which can stymie debate. Facts evolve as understanding of the world evolves and deepens. Under #5 we would have banned Copernicus …
Keyword there is “harmful”. People are allowed to be wrong about stuff, until the things they say might directly harm another person or group (by scaring them away from effective healthcare, or giving them dodgy legal advice, as examples).
Geocentrists can post to their hearts content I reckon.
Psychologically misinformation is thought to be an attraction to being part of an in group, and less harmful permeations are a sort of gateway drug to the more batshit harmful stuff.
So we have significant evidence that vaccines don't cause autism, COVID jabs don't have microchips, climate change is human caused, etc. How would you phrase it to say that we don't allow debate on these things? Remembering that these are based on much more rigorous evidence than the prevailing view in Copernicus's time.
I think all we can really hope for and expect is "don't be a dick"
An extreme position on hate speech will devalue and could mean "tow the party line" by future mods. However I think there is no value in pointless insults that add nothing to the debate.
My request is that for as long as you can, don't fall for the trap of the argument that these guidelines are biased or involve arbitrary calls. Everyone who is here has come here in good faith and already understands the need for holistic moderation.
The longer you can outright ban dicks after maybe one warning, the better the place will be.
Thanks for taking on the job of running this place
The aim was to have as few rules as possible. I wanted just one (don't be a dick) but others with more experience at handling communities that occasionally get hate speech etc spoke up about how important it was to make it clear what kind of community we are (and so our not many rules is not conflated with say whatever you like). We compromised, but given Lemmy's pre-reddit migration reputation I feel it was a good call to flesh it out a bit more than the single rule.
This post is almost a month old (very old in terms of reddit->lemmy migration), and this draft became our official code of conduct (posted here: https://lemmy.nz/post/63098).