It is true that the job would require clear definition before I would accept it. I would not, for instance, be willing to move a post without a tracer because I think that causes far more harm than good, but I do not believe that our sole remaining appointed Moderator, Craig actually does this. I am under the impression, and please correct me if I am wrong, that Craig always locks threads that he plans to move, and leaves an explanation and a forwarding URL. I have no problem with that method of moving threads.

IMHO, a truly effective moderator's job includes far more significant tasks that moving threads. The most important of which is assisting in developing and maintaining a civil exchange of ideas--even very controversial ideas. I believe that the one of the most significant contributions a Moderator can make is to alert posters ASAP when their posts have gone over the line (i.e. made a personal attack upon another poster) and give him/her an opportunity to immediately edit his/her post. Then, if the moderator cannot contact the poster, or the poster is unwilling to edit his/her own post, I believe the moderator should edit that individual post.

I truly do think this method is far more effective in the long run and far less disruptive than allowing threads to turn into flame wars and then locking down the entire thread and/or banning participants. Naturally obscene threads should be removed immediately.

If the underlying moderation philosophy of FlyerTalk Moderation were very disparate, I obviously would not be able to accept the appointment.

There is IMHO, tigertiger a large gap between harmony and complete agreement. Actually I prefer to talk with people who can politely share ideas that are different from mine. (The emphasis, of course, must be on polite for it is vry difficult to hear people who attempt to converse in an obstreperous, confrontational tone.)

To quote my older brother, for whom I have the utmost respect and admiration, "I will never learn anything from someone who always agrees with me".

[This message has been edited by Punki (edited 04-15-2002).]