Like any good online community, we need a clear content policy and rules for how we intend to enforce it. I’ve started us off with a few placeholders, but I’d prefer that the community weigh in.
What types of posts do you want to see in this community?
What types of posts do you NOT want to see in this community?
How harsh a moderation policy do you want to see, both for posts and comments?
Those are just some starter questions. Let me know what you think. Offer your suggestions for the community’s rules.
Given the volatile nature of the current political discourse, I’d suggest some basic safety features. In my opinion, the following should result in a ban / removal:
Doxing of any user
Posting of personal information
Calls to or threats of violence
Harassment and bullying
On a more personal note, I would love to see an active team providing additional context in comments and fact-checking to posted articles. This might help reduce some of the hyperbole and over the top commentary that turned political discussion on Reddit into a shouting match and echo chamber. Political discussions are best when they’re informed and honest, and that often takes a more hands-on approach from those who wish to curate and foster real conversation.
I’ve always wanted to do an active mod team that comments in real time, but it would take a few more people (although some AI auto mods could potentially be fact checkers… but that’s a whole other project. But, I think, a project worth considering after we do the basics.)
I hope this doesn’t come across as too “opportunist,” but I would really enjoy providing help with active fact-checking. Feel free to DM if you start looking for people to actively fill such a role.