Rules for Debate Blogging

1. On the Offensive Without Being Offensive - If you must attack, attack position, opinions, and facts. Not an individual person or a group. You have the freedom to express your point and stance, but not at the expense of another person's self-value. Vulgarity is also a big no-no. Besides, it makes you look foolish and therefore unpersuasive. In that event, you lose.
   
2. Will the Real Poster Please Stand Up - Posting with a real name. You don't have to give your full name, but posts should be given with at least your last name. If you are weighing in and challenging people, they deserve the courtesy of knowing who they are talking to. Breaking this rule will result in instant banning.
   
3. Citations - Make sure you cite your facts. Numbers can be made up. If you don't we will all assume you are inventing your info, so dropping a quick citation, such as (peta.org) will make you seem much more informed and reliable.
4. Be Polite - Politeness and articulation are expected. Even if you disagree, there is no need to be nasty. I am not spending free time moderating this blog to read that sort of drivel. If you are all polite, and request the same of others, this can be a great and fun exercise in debating skills, even if the topics are emotional and serious.
5. Prepare Yourself - If available, listen to all related podcasts (on The ModCast) and read previous posts to be sure you are up to date as to where the debate is currently heading and why. Unsure of a fact? Look it up. Don't remember what someone said exactly? Go back and quote them. This all makes you more articulate, informed, and, essentially, persuasive.

If you have questions about conduct or think that someone has been out of line, please e-mail me.