The only way I see this even remotely working would be if the ban polls were only started by a member of the staff and I'm not even sure thats a good idea. It just seems like another thing that would increase drama. For that reason my vote is no.
It seems like vet members should be able to work
things out between themselves, save the bans for
spammers and trolls. It is a shame to see members
go that have so much to offer to the hobby.
Don't worry Jeff. Notifications still work even when mods delete comments without even leaving a trace that they did it. I dare say you have your answer.
The concept could be valid but the application would be problematic.
As far as "bans" go... I try to look at it along the lines of : If I am causing enough of a heated or emotionally charged response to what I am writing then perhaps I should pause for a bit to reflect on what is being said by BOTH sides.
Perhaps ther is some portion of misunderstanding.
Perhaps there is a strong reason for another viewpoint.
It never hurts to reconsider your own thoughts when problems arise.
So if I choose not to monitor myself and continue to exasperate an obviously unruly set of postings then I would have no real recourse for being temporarily banned.
Just as is being done now by the moderators.
Sure it isn't perfect. But then none of us are perfect either.
I think that my opinion is due to the fact that I have never needed to be "banned" and I don't plan on allowing myself to be baited into needing to be "banned" either.
When I encounter something online that I don't like I simply close the window or turn off the computer altogether.
Leave all the fighting until you meet in person. It's more satisfying then.
:eg:
I'm not stopping you from posting in the forums, you're continually trying to stir up crap in this thread. This thread is a simple yes or no answer, not who you think is the biggest troll.
Leave the drama stirring comments out and your posts won't be touched, not hard is it? Apparently it is for some people ...
I'm for it in the hopes it stops this X mod banned user Y for Z reason. I honestly feel there'd be less drama this way provided everything is open and transparent.
Ave - Didn't Dave articulate he's and LPF's position on this very question? which i may or may not agree with. My concern for LPF as a forum is to always display unity at the top of the food chain. Please know i comment with the utmost respect. IMHO, the sheep scare fairly easily when a fracture or any indecisiveness is displayed alongside those that tend to the sheep. Individuals stuck in the middle are easily swayed in uncertain times. Many can think for themselves here but nonetheless its cause for concern.