So over the years I’ve noticed a trend where users with sprawling disc threads always seem to have their threads fall into the same pattern. The user in question commits some outrage, it’s reported and people give their hot takes on how outraged they are. Then we fall into debate about our disc policy and whether or not this incident is really bad or if it’s the straw that broke the camels back or whatever else until we take some minor action and everyone forgets or feels bad until it comes up again.
A large part of the problem might be disc threads spanning hundreds of posts over numerous pages. It’s difficult for us humans to keep mental track of such a large amount of information without falling to a certain level of fatigue.
I propose that we consolidate these large threads before they become too sprawling. Once they hit, say, three pages or so, the next incident should be posted in a new thread with everything that has happened so far consolidated in one place. As an example of this sort of thing, I’d cite the example of TheRaven. A high profile user with a history of indiscretions, he was only removed once all of his incidents had been placed together where everyone could see their full scope.
The details could be tweaked, but I think that the general concept of regularly consolidating these threads would reduce mental exhaustion of keeping up with the recurring issues of problem users and keep everyone on the same page. Maybe cut down on the repetitive hot takes every thread of that genre seems to have.
Whether you like it or not, history is on our side. We will bury you!
