Netiquette

Good manners on the Net are important since electronic communication often omits some of the tones of voice or body language that moderates discussion and opinions in real life. Make very sure that you don't get involved in an argument or discussion that you regret, especially if it takes place in a public forum! Here are some very simple guidelines:

If you are new to the Net, take time to 'get the feel' of it, and be sparing in your contributions.
Remember that the person(s) that youn are communicating with may come from another culture and use words differently to you.
Never say anything hurtful, however much you disagrre with the other person.
Use 'private' person-to-person E-mail where sensitive issues are involved. Don't be afraid to apologise.
Don't use the Internet under the influence of alcohol or anything else which might affect your judgement.
Use smileys :-) whenever there is a chance that you could be misunderstood.
If you wish to criticise something or somebody think very carefully. If you feel you must go ahead, use 'FLAME ON' and 'FLAME OFF' to bracket your contribution.
Remember that the person at the other end is a person who has the same problems as any other human. They may be stressed out, sick, etc. They will almost certainly be very busy! Almost everything you will be expecting from the Internet will be given voluntarily, so you have no 'right' to demand anything.
Have fun.

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pmr for pps
Sept 18 1994