X-Message-Number: 30288
From: David Stodolsky <>
Subject: Re: Someone is trying to censor Dave Pizer
Date: Thu, 10 Jan 2008 14:44:41 +0100
References: <>

On 9 Jan 2008, at 20:01, Tim Freeman wrote:

>  If the ratings of hist messages were
> really statements about the messages, I would expect the ratings for
> each message to cluster near the average rating for that message.
> Instead for many of the posts we have one claim of abuse or flamebait
> and everything else is good.

This is a result of not maintaining a rater reputation. There is no  
cost to the rater for abusing the rating system like this. I suggested  
a comprehensive rating strategy when this rating idea was introduced,  
but Kevin choose to install his own ad hoc system. Such systems always  
have holes in them.

What we are seeing is that the system is being used to block a valid  
poster, while invalid ones just get a new address and again post  
things that are not of interest to the group. If the rating system is  
going to function as expected, then there must be a rater-reliability  
mechanism, so that gamers loose their ability to influence messages  
released to the List. This could be another ad hoc arrangement, which  
will also be gamed eventually, or we can start over with a system that  
is based upon firm principles.

Since these events reflect upon the entire cryonics movement, it would  
be in the interests of all organizations to contribute to the  
resolution of this problem. Installing a proper solution might take  
more resources than an ad hoc fix in the short run, but it would  
contribute to improving reputation of the movement for a long time.


dss


David Stodolsky    Skype: davidstodolsky

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