Debates (The Duels)
in Feedback & Suggestions ·
Scott Long71 said:Yes, it’s a dilemma—whether to issue a penalty or simply meet force with force.
One option is to frame this as a "polemic" (essentially a duel), much like the ones used to be waged in newspapers. Such an approach would require an entirely different set of rules. For inspiration, one might look at the remains of that rather famous public feud between George Saunders and John Updike back in 2006.
Here is how Saunders writes about Updike in the New York Times
And here is a bit more from Updike in the New York Times
The question is whether we should allow such duels here or not. If we do, then different rules apply—no red cards, no jumping in as a second... 😉 In that regard, Ridley Scott’s brilliant film—The Duelists—is quite inspiring. 🙂
Of course, a duel can be declined, and any further provocation after that refusal would be subject to sanction. Just sketching out a thought. 🙂
An interesting concept.
To my mind, the key lies in establishing clear rules and boundaries regarding what is tolerated.
Every boundary represents a different tier of engagement.
As I previously noted in the thread regarding self-censorship, the problem with forums (generally speaking, not just this one) always seems to lie with the other party.
It often happens when someone drifts in from the outside—someone completely unexpected, operating on a totally different frequency—making communication impossible.
Naturally, everyone perceives that outsider differently.
The most civilized way to handle it is through ignoring them. However, the issue arises when the same behavior persists over a long period.
A constructive conflict might resolve things in certain instances, though I am not convinced we fall into that category.
Sometimes, perhaps, it is acceptable to mentally "defeat" someone just to establish a boundary. But I wonder if it’s truly worth it—we risk descending back into dealing with toxic and frustrated personalities.
Besides, even an arena like that shifts the focus away from our goal of a pleasant atmosphere; I wouldn't be surprised if those who were "defeated" ended up wanting a rematch. 🤣
If we go down this road, I suggest a title with a US flair, like "Showdown at the Engineering Firm," or something along those lines. 🍿
edit : for some man
I have actually found another alternative for certain people (usually women).
I wrote a little poem.
It didn't quite reach those profound depths, but typically, after that, they left me alone. 🙂