Why is Quora's BNBR Policy Important?

Many users have questions about what is and is not allowed on Quora. One policy that often comes up is the Be Nice Rule (BNBR). This article explores why this policy is in place, its importance, and how it contributes to a safe and respectful community environment.

The Role of Quora's BNBR Policy

Originally, Quora had human moderators, making the BNBR policy a crucial part of its guidelines. This policy was designed to ensure that users felt safe while using the platform, protecting them from bullying and abuse. While the presence of human moderators has diminished, the BNBR policy remains in practice but with a lesser emphasis.

The BNBR policy mandates that all users respect one another and engage in civil discourse. This is not just a suggestion; it is a part of the terms of service that users must agree to when they create an account. In agreeing to these terms, users implicitly give up their right to absolute freedom of speech, which is a primary reason the BNBR policy exists. Violating this policy repeatedly can result in account suspension or even permanent ban.

Why Do You Have to Be Nice on Quora?

Some users question why they have to be nice on Quora. The answer lies in the underlying purpose of the platform. Quora aspires to build a searchable database of high-quality and valuable information that can be monetized over time. The content on Quora is supposed to be respectful, informative, and well-reasoned. Content that is not in line with these standards, such as insults or harassment, can undermine the quality and integrity of the platform.

An illustrative example is Microsoft's AI-driven chatbot, Tay, which faced censorship due to its inability to handle abusive and offensive content. Similarly, Google does not publicly report the number of searches related to sex, another clear indicator of its commitment to a positive user experience.

The popularity of the BNBR policy among some users is understandable, but it must be recognized that such policies serve the interests of companies like Quora. The BNBR policy thus reflects a balance between maintaining the quality of content and protecting users from negativity.

Am I Forced to Follow Quora's BNBR Policy?

No, you are not. Quora does not have a blanket rule against certain types of fringe beliefs or conspiracy theories. Users who hold beliefs such as Creationism, Young Earth views, Flat Earth, or 9/11 conspiracy theories can post their content, albeit the platform does not endorse such content.

The BNBR policy exists to prevent the outcry against such content. This can lead to a more peaceful and productive platform where structured discourse can take place. However, this does not mean that every post is strictly monitored, as Quora focuses on broader engagement.

In conclusion, while Quora's BNBR policy is in place to promote a respectful and safe community, it is also a reflection of the company's business strategy. Whether you adhere to this policy or not is ultimately up to you, but doing so can contribute to a better experience for all users.

Related Keywords

BNBR policy, Quora, community guidelines