A thank you to our members...

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I don't seem to understand that a power of a moderator can change somebodys personality? Especially just to speak a power of truth?

Strange indeed...

Absolutely, DW - have always been aware of the adage that power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. And his fear of abuse, at least, isn't something I would ever discard... Dox has made some good points over the years, and I recently commented to him on that fact. Just because he and I disagree ferociously on some subjects doesn't mean I don't have respect for his views. But in this instance, I also have to look further... as you know, DW, being a moderator isn't about power but about responsibility. Moreso, given the structure here, the only person with any power is Alex; as a moderator, I was and you were concerned with maintaining the site according to the rules provided and the ever-shifting and uncommunicated expectations of Alex. And looking back on the roughly 400 pages of conversation, I don't see individuals acting w/o consensus or reactively; more often, those matters rec'd the most discussion. Those posts involving questions to or requests of Alex generally rec'd the least response. While the decisions may not have made everyone happy, they were made after consideration and within the limited framework of the rules, further constrained by a lack of response or clarification from Alex when sought,

Short form, power is among the easiest of abuses, but that structure is inherently needed. Life would not exist in anarchy. It can be cycled, monitored, shared, limited... but ultimately someone has to steer the ship, and with that comes accepting the blame and responsibility when off course. Often complaints come when those steering have a different goal or vision from those complaining, demanding things suit their needs. In application to forums and moderation, it is akin to to walking into another person's home or business and taking/using their things w/o asking and inviting people over for a party. You are welcome to do so in your home, but not in mine - freedom of speech doesn't come with a bully pulpit or disregard for others.


M.

Mak, I'm sorry to hear about your removal as moderator. I thought you were a good one. Also from what you said, I hope thet Alex isn't losing interest in WP. I really like this place.

Thanks Jono, and to the others who have written me over the past few days - it is greatly appreciated.

Given my personal experience, there is little response from Alex in regards to the site unless it has the potential to affect him personally. All too often, the moderation team was left covering for his absence or lack of response, which is unfortunate and places an unnecessary strain on those who have been asked to volunteer their time and effort to maintain this site. There are a number of questions regarding this matter that have remained unanswered within the moderator's discussion during my time as a moderator; perhaps you will have better success in getting a response. I appreciate and respect WP greatly, as it has been an invaluable asset in understanding myself and my son's situation better; same can be said of the vast majority of the members who have taught me a great deal... it is the actions of an individual that I have no respect for.


M.

I envy your freedom to air your opinions and publicly discuss the situation, as that was what was denied me by Alex when I was de-modded. Not only was I banned but he hacked into my profile and changed my information, putting words in my mouth about how I now knew I was 'wrong' and would treat people nicely from now on. How humiliating it all was.

I am glad he probably just ignores this thread it he has any idea it is here. I don't see how anyone would want to mod for Alex as they learn that neither the 'bad cop' nor the 'good cop' gets any respect for the thousands of hours put towards keeping the site up and running.

Merle

So I guess this means the site may run with or without him. Reminds me of another one but that's another story...

Kind of rude to create a site and just leave it without letting regular members know.

I have to say out of all the aspie sites, this one's been probably the most tolerable in spite of the few problems I had here. Anyway be great if they could add more additions to this site...just a thought but I guess this is running on public funding? Don't know all the story.

{Due to my academic obligations, where I shall be relocating soon too (happy news for my PhD), I am not an active moderator and had essentially left the Wrong Planet. I am "on" now as I'm in the midst of relocating overseas.}

I have more than just respect for our moderators, you are all my friends. Merle, I am sincerely sorry for how you were treated as you've contributed more than imaginable for the Wrong Planet. Maku, my same sentiments. DW_a_mom, your posts are invaluable and I regard you as the "Wrong Planet mom."

Perhaps most especially, the Culture of Autism has emerged with all of us (the Wrong Planet) as a concerted whole. I sometimes wonder what Dr. Hans Asperger would think if he were alive. I am not privy as to what has transpired but I believe we'll overcome this dilemma. But so sorry for those who have been hurt and mistreated in this way.



V8 sends his love - the robot with the big heart who "invited" himself to the Wrong Planet