Last week, I sent a message to Sanetters about my comments
on splitting SANET per Gabe Hegyes' request. I felt
obligated to mention that I, too was about to unsubscribe
because of the emotionalism.
The message was garbled due to getting uuencrypted because
a default switch/setting lingering from the software
installation.
So here's the jest (better known as my two bits):
I can read respect from an Internet Address - it doesn't
take much creative connectivity to comprehend .ext., .edu.,
or .gov., amongst others. These were respectable folks who
*all* have a higher education. I was concerned with the
number who were unsubscribing. They may be the ones with
the ability to answer an important question that could be
aired on SANET-MG if it survives.
*I* think SANET-MG should be mostly a *general* forum for
all issues which are *directly* involved with SA! Budding
discussions can easily take place directly amongst the
individuals that are interested. That's what creating your
own mail list is all about. It's kind of like sending the
issue to a committee. It's efficient, and it may be a
fact - some people on SANET may not give a flip about BST.
DANGNET! We're high tech, but I'm thinking
that some manners that our folks were supposed to
teach us still should apply - communications by electronic
means still require respect, tact, and judgement, as well
as the ability to "watch your mouth". You know, I never
knew my parents to be politically, scientifically,
socially, or constitutionally constrained from speaking
their minds. (R-E-S-P-E-C-T, DANGNET)
I am seeing people using SANET like throwing rocks from
behind a fence. I really wonder what any network would
turn into if people couldn't be identified by their
address; would it be a clandestine free-for-all for
political nomads? I guess it doesn't matter anyway, some
people are going to say what they want, when they want, how
they want, no matter "want".
WAKE UP! SANET-MG is *NOT* a political bulletin board for
(as others keep wailing) the endless (it goes on and on and
on) defense of freedom of speech, constitutional rights to
be downright rude (it seems), demo/auto/plutocratical
tranquility, or anything else some people are using to
"wrangle" up some controversy. It's *SANET*, not PHHNET
(Political Horse Hockey Net).
WHAT IS THE HEALTH OF SANET?
I, like others, learn *something* from *all* the comments,
even the ones in specialized areas I do not have much
experience in. However, there is little to learn from
blatant accusations, firing announcements, rebuttals, and
unwarranted personal attacks on highly respected
individuals within our same professional ranks.
Some of those attacked may not even use SANET - I
guess we should give them one chance to comment, or at
least a last cigarette before they are crucified.
If SANET is used in this manner - count it dead.
I do not perceive SANET to be a forum for emotional
complaints of any kind. Let's leave investigation of
research/governmental monies supposedly spent awry, "big
brother-little brother" worries, and the development of a
clearinghouse for accusations of research bought and sold
to another medium. I'm not saying that these are not BIG
problems; IT JUST DOESN'T BELONG ON SANET!
I reiterate:
If SANET is used in this manner - COUNT IT DEAD.
JPB
(A concerned Sanetter - just like your-ownself)
My thoughts and comments are my own. I'd be glad to hear
from you, but direct your comments to ME! The opinions
expressed by me do not represent those of anybody,
anything, or any living livestock associated with TAMU or
TAMUS. 'Preciate your time.