Tracy Press

As I read through the articles each day for The Press I feel inclined to comment as do others. I value and respect other's opinions and I even like watching a healthy amount of debate take place. Then come the people who copy your name and make rude statements or incorrect statements that at times are down right mean and nasty. I think it's fun to be able to comment on a story right as you read it and to read other's comments as well, but it's tiresome to see people making absurd comments in someone elses name. It begins to make you wonder who is on here making honest statements based on their actual opinions. It has happened to both my husband and I. I don't mind laughing it off to a point, but these stories are about events that take place where we live and they are things that affect our lives. We have a right to state our opinions without having others muddle up the comments section with their childishness.

I agree. I think that it's fine to have the ability to do online commenting, but take OUT the vulgarity, name calling and lack of human manners. That's just ridiculous!

Unfortunately it is not that simple. I wish it were. =\

The commenting system already has some word checks for rude comments. However it can not read things in context, nor can it 'understand' if a comment is rude or not. That has to come with a strong team of moderators. Yes, a team.

And also, censoring / not allowing comments is a grey area for the TP to become involved in. On one hand people will say thank you, and on the other people will complain of their freedom of speech being violated.

While the comments may be left by an imposter, for the TP to make that assumption and trust one word over another is setting a precedent which could lead to some really negative things being said and done.

We of course would accept any and all suggestions and take them into consideration.

Regards,
Nick
SolutionsIC Support<br><br>Post edited by: NickD, at: 2007/08/13 19:33

p.s.: Seeing as how this post relates to a technical issue of the website, I've moved it to the technical inquiries forum.

I understand that you can't call out someone who may or may not be spoofing the comments section. Maybe if it was set up like the forums where it's a sign up/sign in sort of thing it could be controlled a little better. They'd have to register with an email address and they can be booted for foul language etc. I really don't appreciate someone using my name and making statements about my character etc. I like having a voice and being able to comment and debate. I really don't want that to be taken away. I also understand that registering doesn't solve the problem entirely because anyone can sign up with an email address. It's a great priviledge to be able to comment on this site. I'd hate to see the Tracy press have to eliminate this service. Thanks for your response.

How about enlisting &quot;trusted readers&quot; as volunteer, part-time moderators?
An automated moderation system which allows a certain number of readers to vote a comment &quot;off the island&quot; would also be a way for the readers to delete the trolls and rude comments.