I think the incivility creeps into most threads by a few things working against all of us.
First, there is the blog mindset that seems to desensitize normal discourse. My test is whether I would literally say that post to a group of contributors over a beer. If it seems too edgy or offensive (that is, someone visibly becomes uncomfortable, walks out or tosses their drink in my face), then I try to rephrase it. I try to remind myself of that when I write a post.
Second, we often talk about audio gadgets that we care about, because of ego, expense, and/or time invested in the hobby. Sometimes I forget that folks care about their gear as much as I do. Perspective via self-reflection is always heathy before clicking that “post your response” button.
Third, sometimes written communication simply fails. That’s hard to get around. But it happens.
First, there is the blog mindset that seems to desensitize normal discourse. My test is whether I would literally say that post to a group of contributors over a beer. If it seems too edgy or offensive (that is, someone visibly becomes uncomfortable, walks out or tosses their drink in my face), then I try to rephrase it. I try to remind myself of that when I write a post.
Second, we often talk about audio gadgets that we care about, because of ego, expense, and/or time invested in the hobby. Sometimes I forget that folks care about their gear as much as I do. Perspective via self-reflection is always heathy before clicking that “post your response” button.
Third, sometimes written communication simply fails. That’s hard to get around. But it happens.