I've seen a couple of really ugly comments recently, where a mod had replied, and I had to click on the person (wanting to block them) to realize they had been banned. I really hope a future Lemmy update shows very clearly when that happens, because right now it just looks like we're leaving the comment up. LEaving the comment up but showing the user as banned would be a relatively okay middle ground, I think.

It’s this friendly environment that keeps me on this server. Keep up the good work.

I only have one very specific situational question. On Reddit I was permanently banned from r/politics because when Rand Paul tested positive for COVID, I commented "lol." Is that also considered unacceptable here? If it is I am fine with that, I just want to know what level of basic decency we're expected to show towards public figures we don't like so I can properly self-edit my tone. I am not going to go actively wishing harm on anyone but I thought this was a relatively innocuous comment when I made it and not deserving of a ban, much less a permanent one.

I already see Beehaw as a sanitized space, to be honest. It was the first instance I had signed up for, but I switched almost immediately due to the lack of content and constant defense of censorship. I can sympathize with people who may want a safe space of sorts, but a safe space is just an echo chamber, the same way that the right has created communities where no one can challenge their deranged views.

90% of posts I've seen in Beehaw have devolved into arguments of equity where everyone must take in every advantage or disadvantage that every marginalized group has ever experienced and factor that into their position, or they're guilty of posting from a "white" point of view, or else disenfranchising every group of minorities. Not to mention that thread about Affirmative Action, in which the comments seemed to espouse a purely Black point of view, not taking into account how it may have a positive effect on Asian admissions, and completely ignoring the discussion of how admissions should be merit-based no matter what (even if that means all of our ivy-league colleges are filled with Asian students, who historically place a much higher importance on education than the rest of the world).

I don't have high hopes for any sort of meaningful discussion happening here.

Thank you (and all of the mods, admins, and devs) for working to create a thoughtful instance on Lemmy ... I love it here even though I don't have the opportunity to spend much time online :-)

Question:

What's the stand on discussing points of view on charged subjects?

For example, I got banned from Reddit for discussing the possible thought process of someone who might be attracted to minors. Reason for the ban: "sexualization of minors"... even though the content policy refers to the act itself, not to its discussion.

Is it allowed in here to discuss negative or controversial points of view expressed, or actions taken, by third parties? Or does it taint the whole discussion? Are there some particular "taboo" themes that would do that, while others might not? Would such discussions be allowed with a disclaimer of non-support, or get banned anyway?

I sometimes like to reflect on, and discuss, some themes that I understand some might find uncomfortable or even revolting. I also understand that there might be themes not allowed in the server's jurisdiction.

If this was the case, then I think a clear list of "taboo themes" could be useful to everyone, even if most of the moderation was focused on applying a more flexible set of rules.

I’m really excited and happy to be a mod here. It feels supportive, friendly, and useful. I enjoy the transparency and the community aspect that all Beeples share. I am looking forward to the next steps in our adventures!

A question I have about this is when we have communities with diametrically opposite points of view on a topic.. Eg I'm a carnivore, and while I respect vegans/vegetarians I completely disagree with them on fundamental levels. Both sides have logical arguments, but the foundations and life experiences are different. Does beehaw have space for such opposing points of views, or does it lean to one side, opposing the other?

Thank you for this, another great read. I've also enjoyed reading through the comments and discussions on it and feel like I'm getting more of a handle on the balance you're trying to strike here. I really appreciate all the clear, engaging and comprehensive comments. They're giving me a lot of food for thought! :)