Theos-Talk Archives (April 2006 Message tt00536)

Friends,

Following is the message that goes to new subscribers of theos-talk when
they first join the list. The message has changed over the years, so some of
the long-term subscribers may not be familiar with the current version. It's
important for participants in the list to read and be familiar with it since
it sets the ground rules for participation in theos-talk. 

-- Eldon Tucker

---- copy of message follows ----

You are now a subscriber to the theos-talk theosophical mailing
list.

Initially, your membership to the mailing list is moderated. You
can lurk and read messages as long as you want.

When you are first ready to participate, we would like you to
write an introductory message about yourself to the list.
Shortly after that message and your first few regular postings to
the list, you will likely be removed from moderation and free to
post directly to the list.

(The purpose of the initial moderation is to make sure that new
subscribers wanting to post messages on the list introduce
themselves and that their initial postings show they have some
interest in theosophical discussions and are not solely
interested in totally unrelated materials. We also want to
insure that new participants are not solely out to rhetorically
beat up everyone in sight because they hate the subject of
Theosophy and want to lash out at anyone caring to explore it.)

This is not intended to be a role playing site. It is expected
that people posting to the list sign their emails or use the same
penname consistently, regardless of the email address used in the
posting. Pretending to be multiple different people is not
allowed and cause for removal.

Participants are expected to treat each other respectfully, even
when strongly disagreeing on important ideas and issues.
Materials posted should have some connection to the theosophical
philosophy, or otherwise be of general interest to others on the
list. Large volumes of materials that should really belong on
lists dedicated to other topics should not be dumped on the list.

There is no right answer to any particular question. But there
is a right way to ask the question and other ways that can be so
objectionable that uproar created upstages the discussion and
only harm is caused.

If you have any question about how things are running, or
complaints to make about other list members, do so directly to
the list owner: theos-talk-owner@yahoogroups.com. Don't post the
complaints directly unless you are very sure that the other
person will not be offended.

Theosophy is a grand subject and it is a privilege to share a
place with friends and other fellow students of its philosophy.
Please help make sure this place is a welcome home for sincere
and deep inquiry by everyone from all different backgrounds.

Finally, note that any decision make by the listowner is final,
and not subject to further debate. If a decision is made, for
instance, that a particular tread of discussion has gone far
enough and should end, you should move on to talking about other
things.

Thanks again for joining us and happy philosophizing!