Beyond Quora Guidelines: Basic Rules of Fair Play for Using the Comments Section

Quora, as an engaging platform for sharing knowledge, often emphasizes the importance of adhering to certain guidelines. However, there is more to effectively utilizing the comments section than just following established rules. As I have contributed more in the form of comments than answers, with a focus on hard facts over subjective opinions, I've crafted my own set of rules that I believe can enhance the Quora experience for everyone.

1. Don't Be an Asshole

The comments section, as a public space, should be treated with respect and professionalism. Here are some points to keep in mind:

Keep critical comments about the content. Avoid targeting individuals personally. Avoid ad hominems and other forms of personal attacks, even if allowed by the platform. Treating others like they treat you will often result in a toxic environment. Be clear, respectful, and understanding. Misunderstandings are common, but diplomacy can help navigate them. Avoid bait and switch tactics such as altering content to mislead readers, pruning comments to stroke your ego, or blocking dissenting voices to protect your reputation. Refuse to support spam. Engaging in or tolerating spam is not acceptable and goes against the ethical use of the platform.

2. Don't Be an Idgit

Intellectual honesty and academic rigour are crucial when engaging in the comments section. Here are some key principles:

Avoid logical fallacies. Arguments that rely on logic are valid, but misrepresentations are counterproductive. Acknowledge your lack of knowledge when relevant to the discussion. Admitting what you don't know can be beneficial. Always back up your claims with evidence. If you expect others to treat your opinions as objective facts, be prepared to substantiate them. Do not selectively address claims. Addressing all relevant points in a discussion is essential for a fair and productive exchange.

3. Don't Assume Unneccessarily

Prejudging the intent or reasons behind comments, posts, or individuals can lead to misunderstandings. Be mindful of the following:

Do not assume unstated reasoning, experiences, positions, or beliefs unless answering requires it. Do not assume someone wants to defend their content or debate positions. Some individuals may merely seek a platform for expression, not a debate. Avoid assuming authority, especially in the context of the comments section. Do not assume the reasons for posting or responding. Do not assume that everyone has the same interests, values, experiences, or goals in life. Respecting individual differences is crucial.

Remember that Quora is not designed to be fair, and expecting fairness can lead to disappointment. However, by adhering to these rules of fair play, we can contribute to a more positive and productive environment. Engaging with individuals who demonstrate positive qualities can also help in avoiding unpleasant or counterproductive interactions.

In conclusion, while Quora guidelines are essential, they are not comprehensive. By following these expanded rules, we can enhance our experience on the platform and contribute to a better Quora community for all users.