From 52faefafeab7e5012220dfed84162481b81475e0 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: David Shapiro Date: Sun, 12 Nov 2023 08:17:49 -0500 Subject: [PATCH] Create code_of_conduct.md --- code_of_conduct.md | 489 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ 1 file changed, 489 insertions(+) create mode 100644 code_of_conduct.md diff --git a/code_of_conduct.md b/code_of_conduct.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..b77f675 --- /dev/null +++ b/code_of_conduct.md @@ -0,0 +1,489 @@ +# HAAS Code of Conduct + +## TLDR + +**Maximize Signal-to-Noise Ratio** + +1. **DON'T WASTE TIME:** Before you post, commit, or comment, make sure that your contribution is not going to waste anyone's time. Low effort and low value contributions will be removed. Repeat offenses will result in a ban. This reduces NOISE. +2. **ADD VALUE:** You should be seeking to maximize value added to the collective. Optimize your contributions to be succint, impactful, meaningful, and helpful. This boosts SIGNAL. +3. **DO NO HARM:** Zero tolerance for insults, trolling, moving the goalposts, and frivolous debates. Reduces noise and removes disruptors. + +For more information, check out the original C3P0 below. Participation in this project and community is a privilege, not a right. Act accordingly. + +## Don't Waste Time + +Time is our most scarce resource and is a proxy for everything else important; cognitive energy, and so on. Optimize your contributions to be a good use of time. That means you should expend your time wisely, and ensure that the time spent reading your contribution is also a good use of time. + +Good Uses of Time: +- High quality posts that are well thought out, well structured, easy to read, and not gigantic walls of text. LESS IS MORE. +- Demonstrations that quickly and succinctly convey the most information in the least amount of time. +- Examples that quickly convey how and why things work + +Bad Uses of Time: +- Debating, arguing, and quibbling over details or superfluous topics +- Moving the goalposts, changing the scope, or naysaying +- Walls of text, personal opinions, irrelevant contributions + +## Add Value + +The key here is to optimize value-add. If you don't have something particularly valuable to add, don't add anything. But, if you do have something valuable to add, please do so immediately and in an manner optimized for best use of time. + +Valuable Additions: +- Solve problems +- Add code +- Share resources +- Increase collective's understanding + +## Do No Harm + +This is boilerplate anti-trolling, flaming, and griefing. This behavior will result in an immediate irrevocable ban. Removing dirsuptors results in better signal to noise ratio. + + +## C3P0 +https://github.com/daveshap/C3P0 + +```markdown +Collaborative Culture Community Policy: Zero Tolerance + + + +I. Preamble: Understanding the Present + +The Collaborative Culture Community Policy Zero Tolerance (C3P0) arises +from a critical understanding of contemporary digital culture. We +recognize the pervasive influence of engagement-driven algorithms in our +online spaces, which often amplify and incentivize toxic competition, +harmful behaviors, and low-quality interactions. These algorithms, in +their relentless pursuit of engagement metrics, often prioritize volume +over value, controversy over collaboration, and outrage over +understanding. + + + +II. Vision: Imagining a Better Future + +The C3P0 puts forth a vision for online communities that depart from these +harmful norms and instead, place the well-being of their participants at +their core. We envision digital spaces where the time, energy, and +emotional well-being of participants are respected, where interactions are +thoughtful, where discussions are fruitful, and where the digital +experience is marked by empathy, respect, and understanding. We +acknowledge that this approach may result in lower engagement levels +quantitatively, but qualitatively, it promises to elevate the online +experience and create a more meaningful, inclusive, and enjoyable digital +landscape. + + + +III. Intent: Shaping the Change + +To bring this vision into reality, the C3P0 sets out a clear policy and +practical guidelines designed to nurture a healthier digital culture. The +policy underscores the crucial shift away from metrics-driven engagement +towards a values-driven engagement that prioritizes collaborative and +constructive participation. It establishes clear expectations, upholds +transparency, and enforces accountability. In doing so, we intend to +challenge the status quo, encourage digital platforms and creators to +adopt these principles, and ultimately, play our part in fixing the +internet, one digital community at a time. + + + +IV. Potential Impact: An Unexpected Upside + +While it's easy to assume that enforcing stricter community guidelines may +suppress activity and thereby reduce engagement, historical and +sociological patterns suggest otherwise. Just as the ban on smoking in +public spaces, which was initially perceived as detrimental to businesses +such as bars and restaurants, eventually increased their patronage, we +believe a similar pattern may emerge in online communities. + +By instituting these guidelines and pushing harmful behaviors to the +fringes, we may be able to create a more inviting environment. When online +spaces become more respectful, more inclusive, and more value-driven, they +also become more appealing to a broader audience. + +In essence, this is an appeal to quality over quantity: a smaller number +of high-quality, respectful interactions over a large volume of toxic +engagements. Yet, it's not only the quality that might improve - the +quantity might as well. + +By creating safer spaces online, we may actually foster deeper, more +meaningful interactions. We could attract more diverse voices, +perspectives, and ideas, which would otherwise be pushed out by toxic +behaviors. And so, paradoxically, by striving to create a more wholesome, +respectful environment - even if it means enforcing stricter guidelines +and seeing some decline in immediate engagement - we might actually drive +up engagement in the long run. + +In this way, the C3P0 isn't just an ethical and moral approach to digital +community management - it could also be a smarter, more sustainable +approach to fostering vibrant, engaging, and diverse online communities. +It's a win-win for everyone: a healthier, more enjoyable experience for +users, and a more engaged, diverse, and respectful community for platforms +and creators. + + + +V. Theory and Principles + +To embody our values and vision, we have identified several guiding +principles which serve as the backbone of our policy: + +A. Privilege of Participation + Engagement in our online community is a privilege, not a right. This + distinction underscores the need for every member to contribute positively + and constructively. Our community is not an inalienable public square but + a collective space built on shared norms and respect. It invites + individuals who uphold these values, enrich discussions, and respect + fellow participants. Those unable or unwilling to abide by these standards + may forfeit the privilege of participating in our community. + +B. Right to Consent + Every member of our community possesses the fundamental right to consent + to how they're treated. This principle asserts that one's online presence + doesn't imply an open invitation for harassment, abuse, or unwanted + attention. It repudiates the notion that by merely being online, + individuals are 'asking for' or 'exposing themselves to' potential harm. + We respect and uphold the rights of our members to engage in a manner that + they feel comfortable with, putting their safety and well-being over + superficial metrics of engagement. + +C. Time Vampirism + Time vampirism refers to behaviors that drain the collective energy and + time of our community. These behaviors, such as trolling, engaging in + baseless arguments, and continually shifting the goalposts, detract from + meaningful engagement and waste the valuable time of our members. We + consider time a precious commodity and take a strong stance against + practices that misuse or squander it. + +D. Collaborative Culture + We foster a culture of collaboration rather than competition. Many online + platforms promote competition, driving engagement through conflict and + outrage. This often results in divisive, harmful spaces that discourage + genuine discourse. In contrast, our community encourages collective + growth, mutual learning, and supportive interactions. We believe that a + collaborative environment, where members uplift and learn from each other, + leads to richer, more positive experiences. + +E. Constructive Participation + Constructive participation is the cornerstone of our community. We expect + all members to contribute in a manner that is thoughtful, respectful, and + aligned with the community's purpose. This involves listening to others, + providing insightful input, staying on-topic, and treating all + participants with kindness. Constructive participation recognizes and + appreciates the diversity of our community, fostering an environment where + different perspectives can be shared and valued without fear of hostility + or derision. + +F. Accountability + Accountability is central to the functioning of a healthy, respectful, and + collaborative online community. Existing algorithms and policies on many + online platforms often fall short in this regard, allowing harmful + behaviors to persist under the guise of 'free speech' or engagement. This + approach not only undermines the quality of interactions but can also have + severe mental health repercussions for users exposed to such behaviors. + Our policy asserts that accountability should be paramount in any online + community. Members should take responsibility for their actions, comments, + and the effect they have on others. + +G. Consequences + Just as in real life, there must be consequences for actions that harm or + disrupt the community. All too often, online platforms allow harmful + behaviors to go unchecked, breeding a toxic environment that discourages + meaningful engagement and collaboration. We stand firm against this trend. + Actions that violate the standards and guidelines of our community, such + as bullying, harassment, or any form of harm, must be met with clear, + swift, and appropriate consequences. These may range from warnings and + temporary suspensions to permanent bans, depending on the severity and + frequency of the violation. By enforcing consequences, we aim to create an + online environment that mirrors the respect, responsibility, and + accountability expected in our everyday offline interactions. + +The C3P0 is a bold step towards fostering a healthier, more supportive, +and collaborative internet culture. By implementing this policy, we aspire +to redirect the internet away from harmful practices and towards a +community that values respect, collaboration, and constructive +participation above all. + + + +VI. The Golden Rule: Don't Waste Time + +Time is the most precious commodity we possess, and within the context of +our policy, it becomes the 'new algorithm,' the key metric guiding our +community interactions. Our golden rule enshrines this concept: Don't +waste anyone's time. + +This principle acknowledges that every second spent within our community +is valuable 'signal.' It reflects our commitment to maximize the +'signal-to-noise' ratio in our community interactions. By 'signal,' we +mean meaningful, valuable contributions that enrich discussions and foster +a sense of community. 'Noise,' on the other hand, encompasses behaviors +and content that waste time, distract from meaningful engagement, or +disrupt the constructive community environment. + +This golden rule is inherently subjective and contextual, reflecting the +varied nature of discussions and dynamics across diverse internet +communities. What might be considered 'noise' or time-wasting in one +context might be acceptable in another. For instance, a light-hearted meme +may be a distraction in a focused technical discussion, but in a casual +conversation, it might foster a sense of community and fun. + +Our golden rule encourages every member to ponder before posting: Does +this contribution act as a valuable signal? Does it respect the time of +others and align with the community's purpose? This perspective flips the +conventional understanding of engagement on its head, with time and +'signal' quality becoming the critical factors over mere quantity. + +We trust our community members to understand and exercise this principle +effectively. We are not seeking to micromanage, but rather to foster a +culture where time, as the new algorithm, is respected and valued. By +promoting a high signal-to-noise ratio, we aim to nurture a collaborative +environment marked by meaningful engagement, mutual respect, and valuable +contributions. + + + +VII. Time-Wasting Behaviors: Reducing Noise + +The C3P0 defines certain behaviors as 'noise' within our community, which +tend to detract from the quality of interactions and waste the valuable +time of our members. Here, we offer a non-exhaustive list of behaviors +that are generally considered 'time-wasting'. Understanding these +behaviors can help our community members better adhere to our golden rule: +Don't waste anyone's time. + +A. Trolling + Trolling refers to intentionally disruptive actions aimed at provoking + negative reactions, derailing discussions, or sowing discord within the + community. This behavior serves no constructive purpose and wastes the + community's time by redirecting attention away from valuable discourse. + +B. Baseless Arguing + Engaging in arguments without any substantial basis or evidence, often for + the sake of arguing, is another form of time-wasting behavior. This not + only detracts from meaningful discussions but also creates a hostile + environment that discourages constructive participation. + +C. Shifting the Goalposts + This behavior involves continually changing the criteria or standards in a + discussion once they have been met. It results in endless debates that + waste time and stifle the productive exchange of ideas. It also includes + 'whataboutism' and other red herrings. + +D. Armchair Debating + Participating in debates about complex subjects without appropriate + knowledge, understanding, or consideration of expert opinions is often + unproductive and may mislead other community members, thus wasting their + time. This also includes 'oneupmanship' and sophistry. + +E. Disingenuous Behaviors + Any form of dishonesty, such as misrepresentation of facts, misleading + other members, or feigning ignorance to provoke a reaction, is considered + time-wasting. Authenticity and honesty are essential in creating a + community built on trust and mutual respect. + +F. Harassing Behaviors + Any actions that involve persistent unwanted attention, bullying, or + infringement on another member's right to consent are strictly considered + time-wasting and disrespectful. Our community places a high value on the + emotional well-being of all members, and harassment of any form will not + be tolerated. + +By clearly identifying these behaviors, we aim to promote self-awareness +among our members. We expect everyone in our community to refrain from +these time-wasting behaviors, to contribute positively to the +signal-to-noise ratio, and to respect the golden rule. We hope this +contributes to a collaborative, respectful, and engaging environment where +each interaction is a good use of everyone's time. + + + +VIII. Good Uses of Time: Amplifying Signal + +Following our Golden Rule, we want to emphasize behaviors that contribute +positively to our community's signal-to-noise ratio. These behaviors, or +'good uses of time,' are actively encouraged as they align with our vision +of cultivating a respectful, collaborative, and engaging online +environment. Again, this list isn't exhaustive but serves as an +illustration of potentially beneficial behaviors: + +A. Thoughtful Participation + Taking the time to craft well-thought-out responses, comments, or posts + that contribute to the topic at hand is highly valued. Thoughtful + participation fosters meaningful discussions and is a respectful use of + everyone's time. + +B. Active Listening + Active listening involves engaging with others' ideas, showing + understanding, and responding constructively. This behavior demonstrates + respect for others' time and effort in sharing their thoughts and fosters + an environment of mutual learning. + +C. Respectful Disagreement + Disagreements are inevitable in any community, but it's important to + handle them respectfully. Expressing disagreement in a thoughtful, + respectful manner that focuses on the idea rather than the person is a + productive use of time and enriches discussions. + +D. Asking Insightful Questions + Asking insightful questions can stimulate discussion, encourage deeper + thought, and promote mutual learning. These questions are often open-ended + and invite others to share their perspectives, experiences, or expertise. + +E. Sharing Knowledge + Sharing relevant information, expertise, or experiences that contribute to + a discussion is highly encouraged. It adds value to conversations and is a + good use of everyone's time. + +F. Constructive Feedback + Providing constructive feedback helps others improve, fosters mutual + growth, and strengthens the community. Remember to focus on the behavior + or the idea, not the person, and to communicate your feedback in a + respectful, supportive manner. + +By promoting these behaviors, we aim to cultivate a community environment +that values quality over quantity, respects each other's time, and fosters +meaningful, engaging interactions. We encourage all members to practice +these behaviors and contribute positively to the community's +signal-to-noise ratio. In this way, every interaction within our community +becomes a valuable signal, and a respectful use of everyone's time. + + + +IX. Consequences: Upholding Accountability + +Consequences for time-wasting or harmful behavior serve to uphold +accountability and maintain the respect, safety, and integrity of our +community. It is important to note that the capacity to enforce certain +consequences will depend on the specific capabilities of various digital +platforms. While we acknowledge this variability, the following is a +general guideline for understanding the potential consequences of +violating our policy. Again, this list is not exhaustive but offers a +range of possible actions: + +A. Warning + Initial minor offenses might result in a warning. This serves as an + opportunity for the offender to acknowledge their misstep and correct + their behavior. + +B. Temporary Suspension or Timeout + Repeated offenses or more severe misbehavior may result in temporary + suspension or a timeout. This punitive measure offers the offender a + period of reflection and the chance to reconsider their actions. + +C. Permanent Ban + In cases of extremely disruptive behavior or in the event of serious, + repeat offenses, a permanent ban may be enforced. This ensures the safety + and well-being of the rest of the community. + +D. Removal of Content + Certain offenses may necessitate the removal of the offender's content. + This can range from a single inappropriate comment to an entire thread, + depending on the severity of the violation. + +While the application of these consequences may vary from platform to +platform, the core principle remains the same: enforcing accountability +for harmful behaviors. We recognize that not all platforms allow for the +full range of these consequences, often providing only more extreme +measures like blocking or banning. In such cases, we encourage communities +to be judicious but firm in their enforcement. + +It's crucial to emphasize that the goal of these consequences isn't to +punish but to uphold the integrity, safety, and respect of our online +community. The same principle applies in various offline scenarios: flight +attendants wouldn't hesitate to enforce smoking prohibitions on a plane, +or if someone lit up a cigarette in a restaurant, they would be asked to +leave. These actions aren't seen as punishments, but as necessary measures +to ensure the safety and comfort of everyone else present. + +Likewise, the C3P0 policy sees the enforcement of consequences as a +commitment to creating a safe, respectful, and collaborative online +community. One person's noxious behavior can make the digital environment +unsafe and unpleasant for everyone else. By implementing consequences, +we're not punishing individuals but safeguarding the collective wellbeing +of our community. In this way, we are making the internet a better place +for everyone. + + + +X. Guidelines for Moderators: How to Use C3P0 Fairly + +The role of a moderator in implementing the C3P0 policy is crucial. It is +a challenging role that requires sensitivity, discernment, and a deep +understanding of our shared values and principles. The following +guidelines are designed to assist moderators in their role, ensuring that +they uphold the spirit of our policy while also encouraging lively, +constructive participation. + +A. Balance + The goal of our policy is not to suppress discussion or create + an environment of fear. While we adopt a Zero Tolerance stance towards + harmful behaviors, it is equally important to balance this with an + encouraging, inclusive atmosphere for genuine, well-meaning participants. + It's critical to foster an environment where users feel free to express + themselves, debate, and share ideas without fear of undue reprisal. The + aim should be to strike a balance where all users feel safe and heard, but + not silenced. + +B. Transparency + Being transparent about the rules, decisions, and actions + taken is crucial for fostering trust within the community. When enforcing + consequences, explain the reason clearly, citing the specific violation of + the policy. This clarity will not only help the individual understand + their misstep but also serve as a learning opportunity for the rest of the + community. Openly communicate any changes or updates to the community + guidelines, and provide reasons behind these modifications. Additionally, + consider creating a publicly accessible log of moderation actions (while + maintaining user privacy), which can demonstrate your commitment to + fairness and accountability. + +C. Consistency and Fairness + Treat all members of the community with equal + respect and fairness, regardless of their status or popularity. Ensure + that the policy is applied consistently to everyone. Avoid showing + favoritism or bias, as this can damage the trust and harmony within the + community. For instance, a new user violating the guidelines should + receive the same treatment as a seasoned member. In cases of rule + violation, communicate clearly about the infringement, the relevant + section of the policy it contravenes, and the subsequent action taken. By + doing so, you demonstrate transparency and uphold the principle of + fairness. + +D. Proactive Engagement + Anticipate potential issues and respond to them + before they escalate. This could involve addressing emerging conflicts, + clarifying misunderstandings, or reiterating community guidelines as + necessary. Being proactive also means guiding discussions constructively + to prevent them from spiraling into negativity or toxicity. For instance, + if you observe a conversation heating up, consider stepping in with a + reminder about respectful dialogue or steering the conversation back on + track. This proactive approach can maintain a positive environment and + prevent the need for punitive measures. + +E. Diplomacy and Empathy + The essence of moderation is not in the exercise + of power, but in diplomacy and empathy. When enforcing guidelines, + approach the situation with understanding and tact. Aim to guide rather + than chastise, keeping in mind that your goal is to foster a respectful, + constructive community. Before taking action, consider the context, the + user's history, and the potential for misunderstanding. If possible, + privately communicate with the user in question to address the issue, + explaining the violation and the necessity for the guideline. This + diplomatic approach can help resolve issues without resorting to public + penalties, which should be used as a last resort. + +Always remember that there is a person behind each username, with their +own experiences, perspectives, and feelings. Strive to foster a supportive +and understanding atmosphere where everyone feels respected and heard. +While firmness is necessary to maintain order and respect, it should +always be balanced with empathy and respect for individual dignity. + +The goal of the C3P0 is not just to penalize harmful behavior but to +actively encourage a positive, respectful, and collaborative culture. As a +moderator, your role is pivotal in shaping the tone and culture of the +community. Your fair and balanced approach to implementing this policy +will be key in creating an online space where everyone feels valued, +respected, and free to contribute. +```