I had a pretty good hold on most of what I needed to know and on many of the members' personalities before I even signed up. In other words, I got to know CP before I made the commitment to join and it really helped me avoid "newbie mistakes" and all the nonsense that sometimes comes with them.
I know my experience is likely unique, but I thought it would be beneficial to others to know that at least one member was gained and retained by the community that we have here, not simply by the information available.
Alan,
Therein lies the crux of the matter. One critical question that we could ask is how much "homework" should we expect of new or prospective members? Another is whether or not the systems and resources facilitate this in the best, most inviting way possible that is still consistent with the core values of CigarPass. These are questions at the heart of the matter.
I get the feeling that some feel that in providing a softer, buffered entry into the community we'll start to let in "asshats." This makes no sense to me at all. If anything, a Newbie area would be the first, low impact screening area for members. IMO, this idea has more upside than downside. Knuckleheads will still get screened and members who might otherwise have been deflected by the "get it or get out" mentality have the chance to transition in more on their terms. Hey, that sounds a lot like a welcoming situation. As to the downside, I can only think of one: that a very few will see their opportunities to take out the shit-kicking boots diminished.
That's fine, Shawn. In fact I wasn't soliciting an explanation or elaboration. I was pointing out that you stated a fact and tied it to a an opinion in such a way as to suggest that we should make an inference. An inference that is not logically supported i.e., "I hate newbie forums
because it caused more problems than it fixed."
As for the Cuban thing, I understand this now. Believe me, I do. Heavy hangs the head...or am I Damocles today?
I've seen a lot of good points made here. The vast majority of respondents in this thread have posted with goodwill and without needing to resort to grade school pokes. We can do the work that needs to be done here without denigrating the diverse approaches and viewpoints we each bring to the table. To those who have stuck to the high road, you have my thanks and most profound respect.
Rod and members, I feel I've said my piece and presented my thoughts. Whatever the the course, it won't change my affection for the community and the people here. In closing, I don't really think that these relatively superficial structural changes will change the nature of the society here. I do believe that it will merely soften the way some new members will enter it.
Best,
Wilkey