Thread Prefixes

[Robert]

There are many paths to the TOE. In the Land of TOE, some members prefer one type of path while other members prefer another, and some members don't care what path is taken as long as they get closer to their destination. But what happens when a member takes a path only to discover it's the wrong type of path. Several things might happen. Some members will immediately leave that path to find another, others will create their own path, but some will stay on the wrong path and criticize those who made the path or those who travel the path. They may say the travelers of the path are lacking in intelligence or lacking flexibility in their thinking and then try to change the path to fit their own vision and, if unsuccessful, they will booby trap the path. This is disruptive and leaves members lost and unable to find any path.

I have solved this problem by using signposts. Before you travel a path, check the signpost. If the signpost says "Scientific-Based Discussion" then you must refrain from offering your alternative views that are not based on science. If the signpost says "Alternative Views" then you must refrain from criticizing members who make comments that are not scientifically sound. These alternative views have value. They lead to brainstorming, creativity, leaps of logic that may trigger that key thought or idea which brings us closer to the TOE. When the signpost is blank then thoughts of science and non-science co-mingle to produce explosive entertainment for some, but for others.... The Theory of Everything!

So, when you start a thread in the main TOE discussion threads you will see the following:



The default is "no prefix" and means you want a unified discussion where both science and alternative views are welcome. Choose the prefix for the conversation desired and the moderators will work to enforce your choice. When you post in anothers' thread, be sure to check the starting post so you know the topic of the thread and the type of discussion desired. When looking in a forum at the list of threads, the prefix (either Science: or Alternate: ) will precede the thread title.

Another useful feature can be found below the thread list in the "Display Options" panel. You can now display threads of a specified type. You just need to choose the prefix from the dropdown menu and then click the "Show Threads" button.

Now, go start some threads!

--Robert

[PoPpAScience]

Great idea Robert, you truly are a fine leader for ToeQuesters like I.

[Robert]

We now have three prefixes. Be sure to choose an appropriate prefix for your thread so members know how to respond and moderators have a better idea how to moderate.

(no prefix) - This is what you see as the default. If you submit a thread without a prefix, you will see the note, "You must select a thread prefix".

Unified Discussion - If you want a clash of scientific-based discussion with alternative views then choose this prefix. Be aware, however, that this may generated some heated and passionate discussion, but might also reveal some hidden gems from the disparate and eclectic viewpoints. The debate may get passionate but should still remain professional and respectful.

Science-Based Discussion - The discussion should be based on scientific thought. The bar is raised a bit higher for these threads in regard to evidence, proof, credibility, etc. If alternative views are posted, but lack a scientific basis, they may be removed by a moderator.

Alternative Views - Alternative, or non-mainstream views are welcome. The bar is lower for these threads in regard to providing proof, using scientific method, critical examination, etc. However, rational thought must still prevail. These threads explore the anomalies of science where the doorways to the TOE may lie. Posts that are overly critical may be removed by a moderator.

I'll be converting all threads that have no prefix, to use the Unified prefix, unless it is obvious what prefix they should contain. Also, I believe your previous thread titles can be edited in case you would like to choose your own prefix.

--Robert

[dleviwing]

You don’t strike me as a Spock type of guy Robert; maybe more of a Scotty.

Your prefixes may help but I think your moderators will still have their hands full with those who persist in ignoring them; they don’t even pay attention to forum topic descriptions now. Also I see one of your new moderators don’t post as much any more; that’s sad! You still have the best diverse site on the web though.

[Graybeard]

I think you mean me Dave. I have a job assignment for about the next 6 weeks that doesn't allow me the time or location to get to the forum ....but I'm still here

cool bananas ... greg

[Robert]

You don’t strike me as a Spock type of guy Robert; maybe more of a Scotty.

Hi Dave. I've been meaning to come back to this.

Although Scotty is an excellent engineer and can design a superb vehicle for a quest to the TOE, he tends to get a bit emotional, and tends to panic when taking something beyond it's engineering limits.

Now Spock, on the other hand, is rational, logical, focused and practical. Spock does not panic and will go where no man has gone before because he is fearless. Spock should be a role model for all seekers of the TOE, because he seeks the truth and is not driven by agenda, ego or delusion.

Who better to lead the quest for the TOE than my imaginary persona?

--Robert