Etiquette

In E-Governance, we will be discussing issues by making posts and comments on posts. In these discussions, the following ground rules must be kept in mind. Any additional suggestions are most welcome. Easiest way is to put a comment at the bottom of the page.

There are certain essential etiquettes which must be observed so as to produce fruitful discussions. Basic rules which should govern posts and comments are listed here.

1. No PAST Grievances. We dont want to discuss wrongdoings or injustices which have occurred in the past. This is usually fruitless, and leads to dissension and acrimony without any resolution possible. Only issues which are currently problems, and for which there are ways to solve these problems, will be open for discussion.

2. No PERSONAL Comments. We will discuss ideas and issues, and merits and demerits of various alternatives. We will not make personal remarks, like He is saying that because he will get so much money from it, or (worse). Instead of saying "I disagree with So and So", we should say something like: "SO and So has made some good points in favor of his proposal. However, certain other factors need to be taken into consideration -- these are SUCH AND SUCH -- After weighing pros and cons, I would recommend the following course of action (which may be the opposite of SO AND SO, but now this conclusion has been reached on the basis of reasons and arguments, and not on accusations and personalities).

3. No EMOTIONAL OUTBURSTS. We try to keep the discussion on the academic level, cool and intellectual, without getting emotional.

4. More than that, we should try to be courteous and respectful, and pay attention to alternative points of view, and not insist that my position is th only right one. Some tolerance and flexibility is required for consensus.