Suggestion

[Adrian II]

Every once in a while a thread on this forum (most likely one in the Backroom) is closed because one or more posts in that thread are deemed unacceptable by moderators, even though other posters have gone out of their way to contribute worthwhile posts to that very same thread.

In other cases, unacceptable posts are changed or deleted by moderators while the thread as a whole is allowed to stand so bona fide posters can continue their discussion.

For obvious reasons I prefer the latter approach, and I am sure many others do.

It is possible to make this the rule instead of the exception?

[KukriKhan]

A fine suggestion. As a matter of fact, closing a thread is the next-to-last resort for the current backroom Moderator team (the last resort being deleting the thread entirely - which hasn't been done in months).

To the greatest extent possible, Ser Clegane and I (I don't want to put words in his mouth; he is afk until Monday) want to foster the maximum freedom of expression possible there, within the constraints of forum rules and decorum.

Thread closure happens when, in our subjective estimate, the content either has already, or soon will, be objectionable enough to warrant formal Warnings, with points assessed against one or more posters.

Of course, as you point out, that closure has the unfortunate side-effect of stifling the 'good' parts of the discussion. We weigh that against the prospect of more members losing their edit buttons, and other sanctions - and also usually note that the same topic subject will undoubtedly resurface soon.

When time allows, we also provide a courtesy notice to the thread starter with the detailed reasons for the closure, and a brief explanation in the closure post.

Not a perfect system. But one that tries to take the interests of ALL Org members (thread starters, posters, and readers) into consideration.

[Adrian II]

Of course, as you point out, that closure has the unfortunate side-effect of stifling the 'good' parts of the discussion.

As well as of 'rewarding' the perpetrators. I think it is sad if one or two posters, through the use of a single offensive word or remark, manage to kill a topic or argument that is unimportant to them, but quite important and informative to others.

[KukriKhan]

Sad, indeed...and on a few occasions in the more distant past, I suspect some posters have used that tactic deliberately. However, we're not inclined to close an entire thread for such single-poster violations...more so when 3 or 4 or more cheerleaders join in the flamey fun. Then even the quite important and informative to others posts get drowned out in the din.

In short: As you suggest, closing threads IS more the exception than the rule.