The Informal Rules of the Rat Email List

RATLIST OPERATING RULES


Draft Version 0.1
James Kittock
Ratlist Manager
January 29, 1997

1. Everyone has the right to an enjoyable, informational, friendly list.

2. Everyone has the responsiblity to do their part to ensure right #1 for others.

3. Everyone has the right to express their thoughts and opinions on subjects relevant to the topic of the list (see the note at the end).

4. Everyone has the responsibility to treat each other with respect.

5. Everyone has the responsibility to control their own behavior.

6. Everyone has the right to complain to me personally if someone is causing problems.

7. I have the right to tell troublemakers to shape up and/or shut up.

8. I have the right to ban persistent troublemakers from the list.

9. Anyone who doesn't like these rules has the right to start their own rat list.

NOTE: Despite the name, the list is not just for discussion of rats, although that is bound to be the main focus. In particular, mice are a valid topic. Even a limited discussion of hamsters will be tolerated. That does not mean that this list should suddenly become a cat list, iguana list, or llama list. It would be cool if it could become a capybara list, but I don't know of anyone who has one as a pet.


April 20, 1997
Updated Ratlist Rules

1. I can change the rules at any time without notification. (I promise I won't change rules arbitrarily or capriciously; however, rules will be changed as circumstances merit.)

2. Subject to rule #1, the old rules, both formal and "common law", still apply. If you've never seen them, or forgotten, here's the upshot: I expect this list to be a civil, friendly place.

3. There will be zero tolerance for flaming or flame-baiting. If you want to fight with someone, do so in personal e-mail or on a specially-designated list or other resource (e.g., the newsgroup alt.flame). I will be the one who decides what is or is not flaming or flame-baiting. I will decide the penalty as I see fit. I may or may not give warnings first.

4. I will take a very dim view of people bombarding me with whining messages about others' treatment of them. This doesn't mean that you shouldn't complain if someone is harassing or abusing you, but don't waste my time. If there really is a problem, others will often speak up for you.

5. Above all, share, learn, and enjoy. Remember that we're hear for fun and to be better caretakers for our furry friends.


Last updated July 1, 1999

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