n. An agreement binding only as a matter of honor; often, specif., such an agreement among the heads of industrial or merchantile enterprises, the terms of which could not be included and enforced in a legal contract.
WHEREAS, many long and contentious discussions on matters of religion and politics have surfaced on this board, and most participants in these discussions have strong opinions and beliefs on these issues, and often some members become somewhat heated in the expression of these ideas..
MAY IT BE AGREED THAT:
WE RESPECT the broad range of political opinions that we hold.
We commit ourselves to refrain from personally attacking any fellow member or political figure based on a mere political disagreement. We commit ourselves to respectful, informative discussion useful as learning and proper debate.
WE RESPECT the diversity of religious traditions that we hold.
We will not turn honest theological debate into a war of disrespectful language.
WE RESPECT one another as fellow musicians and human beings.
We remember that we have gathered here as a community of musicians, and we commit to keeping the community atmosphere alive that we all found when we first joined this board. We agree to disagree on many matters, and we agree not to fault anyone based on opinions they hold.
One of the main reasons I try to stay clear (not always successfully, but I do try) is that all too often they descend from “I disagree with your position” to “you’re stupid, and your mother dresses you funny” in an eyeblink.
There are a lot of people on this board that I like, yet have political opinions vastly different from mine. One of the trends I find most disturbing is the demonization of political opponents. Some of the most ardent on both the left and right sometimes slip over the line from “I disagree with this person’s politics” to “this person is totally evil and anyone who disagrees with me on the topic is either an evil liar or stupid.” No smiley, I’m afraid.
I believe most of the posters here are good people, and sincere in their beliefs. And though we may (occasionally?) disagree, I’ll try to always remain civil and remember there’s a real person behind each screen name.
This is good in principle, but it’s strategically important to have one or two heated OT threads going on all the time. This provides a place where people can spend their anger, and keeps the other threads civil.
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P.S.: I’d like to take the opportunity also to protest against the humanization of political demons that’s been taking place in some of these threads.
A great resolution, and I heartily agree with it. Interestingly though, there are some who have agreed with it, then shortly thereafter have violated it. It’s a good intention, but I’m a skeptic. I doubt it will hold. I will, however, abide by it.
WE RESPECT the music and the bonds it builds between us. Music that can express that which can not be contained in words. Music that touches the heart, the essence of each of us, beyond mere comprehesion, to bind us together in our common humanity. A bond that can transcend the political, religious, economic, social, and geographic diversity found amoung our members.
We will enjoy our music.
Should I faulter, let me be reminded, that this board is about how you …
