At PolicyMic, we believe in amplifying well-informed, but previously unheard voices from across the political spectrum. To remain open, inclusive, and fun, we follow these principles:
Use your real name and a real photo in your profile. We are promoting the highest quality discussion online, and want community members to stand behind what they say. Fake profiles will be removed.
Respect other contributors. You will only convince others by being respectful. Disrespectful comments will be removed, and repeat offenders will have their accounts deleted.
Critique ideas and writing, not motives, personalities, or affiliations. Personal attacks are not tolerated.
Prioritize facts over speculation. Use data when available; be sure to cite your sources by linking to them.
It's easy to criticize a flaw, but much harder to propose a solution. The best comments do both — they reveal an issue and also move everyone's thinking forward.
Here are some tips and best practices (to get more Mics):
Be concise. Others will read, Mic, and reply to you more often.
Mic. If you think something contributes to conversation, Mic it.
Be thoughtful. Rehashing talking points without adding substance won't get you far.
Address others as you wish to be addressed.
Read other members' profiles. You might be surprised to learn what you have in common.
Got something to add to this list? Submit it here.
We believe the community has the power to moderate itself. We want you to call out inappropriate comments. Here's how it works: If a comment breaks one of these rules, give it a red flag. If you believe someone has misused a flag, then give it a green flag. Three red flags will remove the comment. Three green flags will keep the comment permanently on the site. Gang-flagging will result in account deletion.
Disrespectful or aggressive critique of other users
Threats, racial/sexual slurs, or excessive vulgarity
Fake photos, names, or accounts
Promoting organizations unrelated to the discussion