Navigating Quora: My Refusals and Guidelines

When using platforms like Quora, it's important to adhere to certain guidelines to ensure a positive and informative experience for all users. As a dedicated answerer, I have specific standards and refuse to engage in certain behaviors. This article outlines my personal policies and reasons behind them, aiming to foster a healthier community on the platform.

Refusals and Guidelines

Ive never asked a question on Quora; I only answer them. It isnt due to a lack of interest, but rather the fact that I can usually find the answers on my own. However, I do spend a considerable amount of time downvoting, blocking, and muting trolls to maintain a respectful and productive environment on the platform.

Spam and Self-Promotion

One of my firmest guidelines is to refuse any form of spam, self-promotion, and external links (except in the bio). This includes:

Spam: Unwanted publicity or irrelevant content. Self-Promotion: Posting about ones own products or services. Advertising: Promoting goods or services for monetary gain. Selling: Offering for sale or pledging for sale. Pornography: Adult content. Harassment: Insults, intimidation, or threats. External Links Except in Bio: Links to other websites (except within the user biography). Threats: Conveying serious threats. Videos: Posting video content unless it is relevant and approved. Fundraising: Organizations or individuals seeking donations. Billy Flowers Clones: Content copycat or irrelevant answers.

Understanding and Enforcing Guidelines

At times, I find myself dealing with members who dont follow these guidelines. Here are some specific actions I take and policies I maintain:

Refusing Duplicate Questions and Restated Answers

Many users restate the question in the answer section, which can be redundant and unhelpful. I find it a waste of time reading the question twice, whether it has been changed or not. If I encounter a duplicate question, I simply scroll past it. If you insist on restating the question, place it at the end of your answer.

Dealing with Off-Topic Comments

I will not allow answers in comments sections. If I find them, I delete them without exception. You should direct your answers to the appropriate area. Similarly, I do not tolerate references to other answers in my comments sections. When I see such links, I delete them and block the writer.

Lifting Mutes and Blocks

Once I block a user, it is for a specific reason, and past experience has shown that individuals do not typically become more reasonable or rational over time. I will not lift blocks or mutes on my own accord. I also advise seekers not to ask to lift mutes or blocks from me, as I consider it fruitless. Even if it may cause me to lose some sleep, I will not beg or plead for such changes.

Tolerance and Respect

Lastly, I have a zero-tolerance policy for being called a racist or antisemitic. I am an African American and have faced racism throughout my life. Such labels are deeply offensive, especially when they are unsupported by facts and evidence. I will not tolerate or engage with such accusations. However, if you wish to label me an asshole or an idiot, that is entirely up to you. But I will not let others diminish my contributions by mislabeling me.

Conclusion: Adhering to these guidelines is crucial for maintaining a healthy and informative online community. By respecting and enforcing these standards, we can ensure that Quora remains a valuable resource for everyone.