Big Sandbox is a community dedicated to imagination collaboration. Let’s all keep in mind that ideas need a dynamic, fluid and generous environment to flourish. Typical adolescent snark and rude, even repugnant commentary by those who should know better stifle creativity and are not welcome here. Not only are ideas fragile things, those obnoxious voices tend to drown out quiet, thoughtful ones.
Have you ever heard of Gresham’s Law, which states that bad money will always drive out good? Does this law also apply online, where the circulation of ideas will be corrupted by those grudge-bearers, pranksters and time-wasters? Or, rather, is it to be something in reverse, much as Wikipedia has demonstrated?
We are a community of diverse people who don’t necessarily think the way you do, see what you see, feel what you feel or believe what you believe. That is precisely the community’s strength; many ideas at play at any one time, many different experiences to draw from, many different perspectives to add to your own.
In the fifth century B.C. a citizen came to the Rabbi Hellel and said he would convert if the rabbi could teach him the entire Torah “while standing on one foot.” Hellel replied, “What is hateful to you, do not unto your neighbor. This is the entire Torah, all the rest is commentary”.
Respect. You give it. You get it. If someone’s idea strikes you the wrong way, that’s OK. Simply move on to another one. If it strikes you as great and it spurs a thought, leave a comment to that effect. If you feel some constructive criticism is needed, that’s OK as well. The most important principle, though, is to make thoughtful comments. Thoughtful in both senses: both civil and substantial. Does your comment teach us anything? There are two ways to do that: by pointing out some consideration that hadn't previously been mentioned, and by giving more information about the topic, perhaps from personal experience. Just keep in mind: since you wouldn’t talk to your mother, your spouse or your friend with disrespect, don’t do so here either.Now for some commentary. Show some respect with your buddy icon as well. Nudity is not acceptable.And while we’re at it, don’t be creepy, abuse other’s rights to a positive experience or otherwise harass, intimidate or impersonate others.Finally, don’t use the Big Sandbox community for commercial purposes. Selling products, services or yourself will be grounds for termination. p.s. When all else fails, if you find yourself wanting to argue with someone, take a cue from Zompist: Social Skills 101.
