This is something that comes up every so often and I must really be missing something.
I’ve seen several times on this board about how people need to censor themselves, by either not naming names or editing out derogatory statements towards individuals, companies or institutions. And it’s always backed up by statements along the lines of, “Don’t get Don in trouble.” or “You’re putting Don in a bad situation.” etc…
Could someone here please explain how anyone could post any information or opinion on this board that could get Don in trouble?
Legally the poster is responsible for what he/she says. It’s like placing an ad in a newspaper or putting up a sign by the side of the road. This board is just a medium through which the message comes and is viewable only by those who have the privilege of accessing the internet.
If someone puts an ad in a paper calling someone a liar, the person who placed the ad gets sued, not the paper.
And so long as what is said is not false (a lie) then, at least in the USA, it’s covered under the Freedom of Speech. Of course if what is said is an intentional lie then it’s Defamation of Character and falls under all sorts of laws.
So again, why do we have to censor ourselves?
Why not say what we really think and feel? In court a willful omission of the truth is legally considered a lie. Why should I lie to the members of this board and not state what I really think?
And if not not true, then why does the header of every single page on board say, “Remember, you are responsible for anything you say.”?
Thank you for reading,
Curtis (stirring up the shite) F.