Amendments to sub rules?
Full disclosure, I am not a mod, just an alumni commenter.
I just wanted to open a discussion about the possibility of adding, changing, or removing rules for the sub. I am not a mod so I can neither implement any suggestions nor are any mods obligated to do so. I'm just opening a discussion for constructive ideas.
It has felt perhaps that there is a perception that the rules are "too restrictive" of certain people or certain comments, and not restrictive enough of other people and other comments.
In the interest of an ever more productive and positive discourse, particularly in advance of next year's application season, I just thought it would be interesting to hear others' ideas on amendments/updates to sub rules. I can also accept and understand a possible belief that the rules themselves may not be a major driver of the overall tone or discourse here. I’m sincerely curious how others see it.
I also would appreciate thoughts on the extent that rules should govern "what" is discussed versus "how" it is discussed. The "what" can often be more verifiable through links to mitadmissions.org, etc, but the "how" can become quite subjective. And even within verifiable facts, like admission rates, does the implicit competitiveness of these facts inadvertently lead to perceptions of exclusivity, alienation, and discouragement? Is there a better way for these discussions to occur and for questions to be answered that fosters greater respectfulness, encouragement, enthusiasm, inclusiveness, and equity?
The mods can remove this post if they feel it is inappropriate. I just wanted to wanted to tee up an open discussion for fresh ideas and suggestions.