Yeha I don't know about that. Do we stop sending kids to school who are harassed or should harassed women stop going to work if they can't "take it"?

No.....but places like Usenet aren't the equivalent of "must attend" places such as schools or offices. Usenet is more like a jungle filled with all sorts of dangerous animals -- or like the middle of the worst area of a major city.

It's not a good idea for the average person to casually saunter around in such places.

As for websites, AOL chatrooms and such -- see above. Solid rules enforced by admins are the way to go for those wanting a 'civil' environment online. And that's the approach that I advocate.

Chances are, a place with a name like "The Den of Evil Doers" isn't going to have a very civil online culture.........so: it's best to simply avoid it.

I look at it as there are rules in place so civilized society can fuction. And rules are in place for those who cannot exercise resposibility and good judgement on their own.

Largely true. But ALL of us need rules to function with others -- people that don't always agree with us. Even the "good" ones need rules.

Like traffic lights on the road. Just think what it'd be like if all traffic rules were to be suspended. Drive anywhere that you like, as fast as you like, and in any direction that you like. No restrictions.

That sort of "freedom" only leads to the worst type of slavery. Admittedly, such an environment can be a lot of fun for the strong ones. So long as no one else but me matters.

Something To Do At 3:00AM