Whatever Shall We Do?

 It's New Year's Day, and while I don't make resolutions any more, it may be time to set a few ground rules.

Years ago, when I was writing for various publications, I learned that I cannot ethically defend a piece of written work once it is committed to the publisher.  It must stand on it's own.  I would run my work through a trusted group of editors, who would critique it and make recommendations.  I would take those recommendations and make the appropriate changes.  

Blogging is different, as is all publishing these days.  I still trust commenters to make reasoned, critical arguments.  I realize that I don't have a monopoly on rational arguments, and I read all my comments as I find them.  

Here on the intertubes, we have commenters we call "trolls".  And, like most bloggers, I have mine.  These are sometimes people who make calculated, reasoned arguments that enhance the conversation.  Other trolls are simply stirring up crap, with ad-hominem attacks and name-calling.  

I don't intend to moderate comments, as I do this at my pleasure, and can't be tied to a keyboard.  This is a hobby, not a career.  This blog covers a range of subject, from the ridiculous to the sublime.  But, I expect my commenters to be gentlemen, not jackasses.

So, henceforth, any comment that I don't like, for reasons that are solely my own, will be summarily deleted.  With neither appeal or recourse.  I enjoy differing views, I revel in spirited discourse.  I will not tolerate rudeness.  Whatever else might be said, I will assume that no rudeness is accidental.

Y'all have a happy and prosperous New Year.