Situation: We have been asked to review a couple of questions in this zone, alleging that points were "unfairly awarded", to wit: the comment(s) selected did not, in the plaintiff's opinion, adequately address the issue at hand compared to other comments.
Background: In the technical topic areas, we are reluctant to overturn an Asker's selections unless we a) have first hand knowledge (for this purpose, "we" can include the Zone Advisors) that the comment(s) selected are incorrect or b) see that the selection is vindictive in nature ("I don't like you so I'm going to select someone else's comment instead."). In this specific zone, we are even more reluctant to overturn an Asker, since there is no method for proving or disproving the validity of a philosophical stance or a religious belief.
While we are aware that the nature of this zone can occasionally bring out the less agreeable aspects of personalities, we like to think that most members can rise above that and carry on a discussion, and then select comments for which they are awarding points based on the value of those comments to the discussion -- whether or not they agree with them. Note that I didn't say we expect that; just that we like to think it's possible.
Topic for discussion: How does the group of people who frequent this zone feel that we, as the persons responsible for ensuring fairness to both askers, Experts and future readers of these threads, should handle requests for review in this zone?
Disclaimer: We are predisposed to NOT intrude on the day-to-day ongoings here; we feel strongly that the Moderators should only be involved here when absolutely necessary, and as noted above, our initial inclination is to say "It's P&R, so every opinion is as valid as the next." We also have every confidence in WaterStreet; his activities (or lack of them) did not prompt either the requests for review or this question. Finally, there is no hint that any policy with regard to this zone will change or be imposed. We just want to know what you think.
Thanks,
Netminder
Site Admin
