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EJB

This is probably the only forum I know where threads are not 'locked' when they turn into offensive drivel!
The information and help available here is without precedent and for some people the bad is starting to outweigh the good......very sad Wink

gaspode · Moderator

Hi Ted

I think if you look at all the posts on MHF, you'll find that the "offensive drivel" affects only a tiny proportion of them. Overall this forum is about motorhome FACTS and I think it succeeds much better than any other similar forum.

The moderators have a fine line to tread between editing "offensive drivel" and being accused of censorship and they try their best to exercise sensible judgement. Remember that what comes across as drivel to some members is classed as rational debate by others. Also everyone isn't blessed with well honed written communication skills so their opinions may come across as agressive, ignorant, illiterate or offensive to others. If a poster has a valid opinion, unless it's plainly offensive the moderators try to leave it on the forum. Believe me, the moderators would prefer that every post is literate, well reasoned and objective. Rolling Eyes

If you have a particular objection to any post, please use the "report post" facility to let the moderators know. They won't necessarily edit or remove it but they will certainly consider your objection seriously.

MandyandDave · Moderator

Hi, liability for postings on online discussion forums is a complex area and one there is little case history to go on, mods here have had many a headache on whether to post - moderate content on this forum.

Lawyers have different opinions on how the eCommerce Directive should be interpreted.

In our case, because we have a niche audience, i.e Motorhomes the risk is lower than it would be for a broader more focused website, such as a general news site.
Any one interested in the legal issues see here

bandaid

the right to freedom of speech is a basic right in a free society.

But equally theres an important phrase which says,

Just because you can, doesnt mean you should.

What worries me, is that the valuable, actually priceless information I have gained on this forum, may be forced to cease due to litigation from another party.

I agree that if a member has received what they consider to be poor service, then a simple post to that end should be enough, but equally, if the same member has, from his point of view, the potential loss of life savings, or a considerable finance committment, then the stress, frustration and anger that he or she feels, is likely to be vented on this forum; simply because, rightly or wrongly, the aggreived feels he or she will recieve the support that in their own mind, they deserve.

Where else is that person going to go, to tell their story to those they feel will sympathetically listen?.

its a good thing to exercise your right to free speech, but we should all bear in mind there may be consequences to face.

JohnsCrossMotorHomes

I have watched this thread with interest and would comment as follows:

Many a time I have been tempted to voice my opinion over bad service but have refrained from commenting unless I can offer advice.

In the majority of cases of complaints, the poster has justification and the remedy is simple for the 'acused'

Come out of hiding, state your side of the story, but if they do in a sensible manner, members please refrain from slagging them off. This is not a score board contest.

nukeadmin · Site Admin

aultymer

On each page in the Mini forum there is the following line:-

"Don't give out incorrect advice - if you don't know the answer, don't post!"

Maybe we need the same kind of reminder here.

DABurleigh

I like the theory. Unfortunately in practice one has to KNOW the advice is incorrect in order not to post...... Sad

Dave

ruthiebabe

In my work ( nurse involved in child protection) I am taught always to distinguish in my record keeping, case conference reports or court statements between fact and opinion. I am aware that publishing has a different perspective because of libel laws, but what I am suggesting is that it would be helpful to take somethong from this:

if it is a fact make that clear and make sure you know it to be correct; if unsure say you are unsure

eg I think the campsite site is open all year but as it was a year ago you'd need to check

if it is your opinion, make that clear too, and try to be balanced and reasonable as far as you can, and maybe acnowledge that others may differ or that there may be another side to the story/another explanation et etc.

hth Ruth