Do you think Internet communication (especially insofar as it provides relative degrees of anonymity) brings out the worst in people?

If so, can you think of some possible remedies (besides shutting it down)?

I found this interesting bit of wisdom to share. It could be usefully applied to many conversations and interactions on OlyBlog. Here's the transcription:

Rules For the Control of The Tongue

(Every religion, system of philosophy or code of ethics includes advice on curbing the rash activities of the tongue–which is referred to in the Christian Bible as "an unruly evil, full of deadly poison." Here are some of the rules which the Jain Shastras give for guidance in governing this obstreperous trouble-maker.)

1. Avoid lying; speak only words which are truthful and sincere.

2. Avoid exaggeration; speak in simplicity and truth.

3. Avoid deception; do not deceive either by work, look, or gesture.

4. Avoid evil-speaking; practice good will.

You have something you believe in,

something you treasure, like this flower

(which could = hamburger / vitamins / gun / hot cocoa / gummi bears / libertarianism / peace / war / etc.).

• Some people will be allergic to it
• Some people will love it and want to share their own flowers with you too
• Some people will hate it and berate you for even growing it
• Some people will be indifferent

• fight with the people who are allergic and rub the flower all over their faces
• join a flower loving group
• berate those who hate flowers
• ignore the indifferent
• force flowers on the indifferent

• develop high blood pressure and ulcers from all the fighting you participate in
• secretly or not so secretly enjoy waving your flower around in front of those who are allergic
• educate those who are interested about your flower
• respect the boundaries of those who aren't interested, or are allergic

You can have your flower. You can enjoy it. You can find like minded flower loving folks to hang out with. You can find groups of people that in general like your flower.

Life isn't fair and everyone won't like your flower all the time. There are no guarantees.

You can survive this.

Yes, your flower is beautiful and it is yours.

And you can respect the preferences, choices, and boundaries of others.

Respecting the choices of others does not threaten you or your flower.

You can have your flower.