Some threads are coming together:
As Judi pointed out, my thinking about civil discourse in relationship to weblogs also has a place in the world of MOOing. And while civil discourse is certainly an offline world issue as well, I think the World Wide Web has accelerated the pressure to figure out how to get along with others as it offers a meeting place for diverse peoples. When I grew up, everyone I knew was pretty much like me: white, middle class, church goers. I didn’t have much opportunity to interact with anyone who was significantly different either ethnically or culturally. My community was pretty small.
For my nephew, who is exactly 26 years younger than I am, the world is a much larger community and significantly more diverse. He has the potential to interact with those from vastly different backgrounds on the web. And, just as I learned how to address adults and speak appropriately in certain situations, my nephew must learn similar patterns; however, he must be much more sensitive than I had to be to a wide range of beliefs and values. Civil discourse is more important than ever. And we need to consider a wider view of even civil discourse. This is more than being polite or disagreeing nicely. I think we can use civil discourse to further conversations, come to consensus, and develop community.
