Moderator Election Campaign Week

[Haji 2003]

And, there'd be 20 other mods and admins who'd be there to correct any mistakes they made.

 

I wouldn't be too sure about that.

 

There will be occasions when it is sleep-time wherever Sis Hameedeh is and you are on your own.

[Reza]

Yes we should build a firewall, we don't want viruses coming in.

More of my record:

1. I've had no disciplinary actions, suspensions, or expulsions.

2. I've been made dev team member and have been virtually a complete success.

3. I am hyper alert to all details.

4. I bring zing, I'm just saying.

[Khadim uz Zahra]

I wouldn't be too sure about that.

 

There will be occasions when it is sleep-time wherever Sis Hameedeh is and you are on your own.

 

So, the alternative is to just shut anyone who isn't Shi'a down? I mean, I've personally talked to LeftCoastMom in several PMs and she seems just as capable of maintaining order on the forum as any of the people in this poll. Her inclusion gives better representation to minorities and will possibly lead to a more diverse range of opinions on the forum. Plus, it will tell new, non-Shi'a members that this forum is for everyone, that even someone who isn't "one of us" can have a say in the affairs of the forum and, hopefully, make them stick around. All those positives and we turn them down based on our apprehension that they'll do something wrong? They may not be as well versed in Shi'a affairs as we are but most of the disputes around here aren't exactly technical. Often, it's just name calling and people being nasty. You don't need to know the definition of a marja to know what to do. 

[Guest]

Salam all and congrats for your nomination.

Why do you want to be a mod?

Because I love responsibility and putting in long hours of hard work for free especially when the work involves going through lengthy posts checking for inappropriate comments. Also, it has always been my utmost desire to be of service to this great community comprising mostly, but not entirely, of my Shia brothers and sisters. :p :p

Who am I kidding?? I would love to have the power to lock threads. :d

[Reza]

I am busy today, later today I will present my grand policy thesis.

[Haji 2003]

 

So, the alternative is to just shut anyone who isn't Shi'a down? I mean, I've personally talked to LeftCoastMom in several PMs and she seems just as capable of maintaining order on the forum as any of the people in this poll. 

 

Without wanting to personalise this, we should be aware that people do come and go, often posting very heavily for an intense period before disappearing. Over such short periods of time, it can be difficult to properly ascertain who someone is.

 

Having said that I agree there are some declared non-Muslims who have been on this site and are currently on it, who are more trustworthy and have more integrity than some of the people claiming to be Shias.

Edited November 5, 2015 by Haji 2003

[Khadim uz Zahra]

 

 

 

Without wanting to personalise this, we should be aware that people do come and go, often posting very heavily for an intense period before disappearing. Over such short periods of time, it can be difficult to properly ascertain who someone is.

 

Having said that I agree there are some declared non-Muslims who have been on this site and are currently on it, who are more trustworthy and have more integrity than some of the people claiming to be Shias.

 

 

I understand that. I used LCM as an example because, well, she's liked across the board and someone I've personally talked to. As far as I'm concerned, ChristianLady, Placid and Son of Placid are just as good but there are some conspiracy theories about these members (unfortunately) so I tried to use the most popular non-Muslim I knew. There's also Ethereal, who is a gem but he's not a Shi'a. He'd also be perfect for the job. I'm more interested in the rule than the specific people.

[Bakir]

Though I agree with you Khadim, who knows what is behind the scenes. In the other hand internet is very (sadly) polarized. It is safer to keep it like this, even though I appreciate a lot some of our Christian brothers in this forum (and luckily enjoy learning about their faith too).

[Khadim uz Zahra]

Though I agree with you Khadim, who knows what is behind the scenes. In the other hand internet is very (sadly) polarized. It is safer to keep it like this, even though I appreciate a lot some of our Christian brothers in this forum (and luckily enjoy learning about their faith too).

 

Again, we can't stop progress because we're scared. How do you know who I am behind the internet? How do you even know I'm a Shi'a? If you can let your fear go for me and the hundreds of other members who write Shi'a on their profile, why can't we do the same for others?

[Haji 2003]

There is also an issue of what we think this site is and what it should be.

 

At one end of the spectrum, you could have a cultural site for people who identify themselves as Shias mainly on the basis of heritage.

 

This would offer a great deal of latitude in terms of topics, for example, Shias could discuss what music they liked. People could share photos of themselves and others without worrying too much about clothing. 

 

On the other hand, you have a site that is for observant Shias, where in terms of both content and etiquette there is an intention on the part of moderators to uphold religious ideals.

 

Consistent with this is the belief that how busy the boards are, plays a secondary role to those ideals.

 

I think most of the current moderating team firmly subscribe to the latter option and I hope that I do too.

Edited November 5, 2015 by Haji 2003

[Reza]

I agree that it must be a twelver Shia. The title is important, and it increases the chance they will have the knowledge base of the principles.

My red line is based on my subjective inclinations, and a thorough understanding of intent, a new psychological science when related to the e-world. There are cultural and personal differences we have to realize. Some people are more direct, use sharper language, are are less hesitant and sensitive, and we should accommodate that.

[Ali-F]

Vote for silasun! Go go go!

[Khadim uz Zahra]

 

There is also an issue of what we think this site is and what it should be.

 

At one end of the spectrum, you could have a cultural site for people who identify themselves as Shias mainly on the basis of heritage.

 

This would offer a great deal of latitude in terms of topics, for example, Shias could discuss what music they liked. People could share photos of themselves and others without worrying too much about clothing. 

 

On the other hand, you have a site that is for observant Shias, where in terms of both content and etiquette there is an intention on the part of moderators to uphold religious ideals.

 

Consistent with this is the belief that how busy the boards are, plays a secondary role to those ideals.

 

I think most of the current moderating team firmly subscribe to the latter option and I hope that I do too.

 

 

I think this will be my last post on the matter because, well, this topic is kinda off-topic and not entirely related to the purpose of this thread but I don't think that the two have to be exclusive. We can, indeed, train and guide a non-Shi'i moderator to respect our rules. Most rules would probably be common sense; no swearing, no sexual content and so on. For the few things that might not be, like insulting maraji' or the ban on music, can easily be taught to someone who has been on the forum for two years (the other requirement). We don't need to draw blanket assessments. We don't need to go the 'either or' route. The benefits certainly outweigh the tiny amount of effort existing mods will need to make to train a new mod to abide by the rules set by them.

[mina]

@Khadim,what profile pic will you have when you get elected?

[Khadim uz Zahra]

@Khadim,what profile pic will you have when you get elected?

 

LOL I'll probably keep it the same but if I had to choose one, it'd be Darth Vader, of course, the young padawan who joins the dark side after tasting power. Plus, I'd be insanely popular as people would confuse me with, well, Darth Vader.

[mina]

I am busy today, later today I will present my grand policy thesis.

please elaborate on the zero tolerance policies towards viruses and drug dealers as well.

[Brained]

3 pages and not a single post on the economy! where's the monetary policy? who's gonna pay off my loans? what about that mortgage?

[Guest silasun]

Vote for silasun! Go go go!

 

Iraqis stick together!  Big up my dear buddy Ali :D Long live the Iraqis of Europe!

 

Iraaaqistan.... zindabaaad

3 pages and not a single post on the economy! where's the monetary policy? who's gonna pay off my loans? what about that mortgage?

 

The economic policy comprises of giving Repenter a lump sum of $50 000 and a final salary pension.

 

 

 

psst Repenter.... do some hacking and get me a few extra votes ;)

Edited November 5, 2015 by silasun

[Reza]

Alright guys, I'm back and ready to get this started.  Let's make ShiaChat great again. 

 

Let's examine the role of a moderator.  Is it technocratic, ideological, or both?  Is it passively enforcing site rules, or is it actively developing and promoting the site's ideology?  The wise know its both, and these two dimensions are inseparable. 

 

The moderator is a reflection of the site itself.  Contributions are discussed, scrutinized, and taken very seriously overall.  The draw the lines, so the rest of the people feel safe.  They can stimulate and dampen, persuade and dissuade, promote and demote.  They are our trusted authorities. 

 

Haji brings up an interesting question.  Is this a "Muslim" site or an "Islamic" site?  Is the site's superstructure based on identity or based on principle?  It's an important question, because it relates to the day to day function of a moderator.  I think the prevailing orthodoxy for a while has been the latter, and many would call the moderation "strict" or "conservative" as a result.  But I think that's fine.  Other Muslim predominant forums that are much more lax may be more interesting and edgy from time to time, but deep down you feel an anxiety.  Overall, keeping this site clean and family friendly is worth it, even if we become stiff and overreach a little.  The primary demographic of this site is younger people, and that's why its more important. 

 

Is this site a social network or an e-university?  I am not as enthusiastic in believing this place is an academic hub.  Although there is a lot to learn here, I consider this place to be a stepping stone or coffee break from one's substantive learning, which takes place outside through books, lectures, and other websites.  I consider this to be merely a supplement for learning.  But in the social realm, the hope is to make this site a replacement.  A replacement for other forms of social media.  So I think that needs to be emphasized.  Connecting with people, sharing thoughts, feelings, life stories.  I come here to learn about other's social issues and opinions.  Facts I can get anywhere, but good decent opinions are hard to come by, and a well regulated and moderated forum like this is one of our few places. 

 

Every mod here plays a part.  Abu Hadi plays the role of youth pastor leader.  Notme the motherly figure.  Haji and Muhammad Ali the quality thread makers and discussion starters.  HH as social critic.  And so on.  I would want my role to be engager, through some ideas I mentioned earlier, while promoting better site user friendliness and activity.

[Guest silasun]

Alright guys, I'm back and ready to get this started.  Let's make ShiaChat great again. 

 

Let's examine the role of a moderator.  Is it technocratic, ideological, or both?  Is it passively enforcing site rules, or is it actively developing and promoting the site's ideology?  The wise know its both, and these two dimensions are inseparable. 

 

The moderator is a reflection of the site itself.  Contributions are discussed, scrutinized, and taken very seriously overall.  The draw the lines, so the rest of the people feel safe.  They can stimulate and dampen, persuade and dissuade, promote and demote.  They are our trusted authorities. 

 

Haji brings up an interesting question.  Is this a "Muslim" site or an "Islamic" site?  Is the site's superstructure based on identity or based on principle?  It's an important question, because it relates to the day to day function of a moderator.  I think the prevailing orthodoxy for a while has been the latter, and many would call the moderation "strict" or "conservative" as a result.  But I think that's fine.  Other Muslim predominant forums that are much more lax may be more interesting and edgy from time to time, but deep down you feel an anxiety.  Overall, keeping this site clean and family friendly is worth it, even if we become stiff and overreach a little.  The primary demographic of this site is younger people, and that's why its more important. 

 

Is this site a social network or an e-university?  I am not as enthusiastic in believing this place is an academic hub.  Although there is a lot to learn here, I consider this place to be a stepping stone or coffee break from one's substantive learning, which takes place outside through books, lectures, and other websites.  I consider this to be merely a supplement for learning.  But in the social realm, the hope is to make this site a replacement.  A replacement for other forms of social media.  So I think that needs to be emphasized.  Connecting with people, sharing thoughts, feelings, life stories.  I come here to learn about other's social issues and opinions.  Facts I can get anywhere, but good decent opinions are hard to come by, and a well regulated and moderated forum like this is one of our few places. 

 

Every mod here plays a part.  Abu Hadi plays the role of youth pastor leader.  Notme the motherly figure.  Haji and Muhammad Ali the quality thread makers and discussion starters.  HH as social critic.  And so on.  I would want my role to be engager, through some ideas I mentioned earlier, while promoting better site user friendliness and activity.

 

 

Don't fall for this man, he's reading off an autocue!

[Khadim uz Zahra]

Don't fall for this man, he's reading off an autocue!

 

OK, that's just dirty politics! :P

[Guest silasun]

Salam, question for all. What will you do personally to encourage more people to join this forum, and also to encourage more participation and interaction on the forums from all members?

 

Competitions would be a great addition. You could have poetry competitions for example, and gradually you can encourage people to get involved in what is a beautiful art. One thing that the Shias need in the English language is developing our poetry for the AhlulBayt (as) ... Many brothers have put in loads of effort but we need more creative people involved in this work. God willing it will be successful. Keeping the tragedy of the Ahlulbayt (as) alive is a great duty which I don't feel is being fulfilled in the English language. That's just one example.

 

 

I'm a firm believer that making a fun place for people to come to will get people to be more attracted to the path of the AhlulBayt. If SC is a battleground between Sunnis and Shias or people who believe in x or y then it will never be attractive to those with less knowledge of Islam.

 

 

I fear that without making the site enjoyable, nobody will want to come here except a few dudes who understand the religious sciences to a degree...

 

 

I've shared a few jokes on this thread now but the immense wajib act of enjoining to the path of the Ahlulbayt (as) is no laughing matter. We need to seriously get our heads together (this isn't for the mods only- every member, rather every Muslim in the West) and work out exactly how we can fulfil this goal. The Imam of our time's Zuhoor isn't going to come about with endless mud-slinging matches between opposing sides as this site has come to be.

 

 

Lay on the art, poetry and game design competitions! But don't forgot the purpose of all this.... Let's get people to understand the path of the Ahlulbayt so we can say to the Imam of our time if, God willing, we are alive at his zuhoor, that we did our bit.

Edited November 5, 2015 by silasun

[Noor al Batul]

Iraaaqistan.... zindabaaad

 

For that alone, you deserve minus-votes. Really.

 

:lol:

 

Question: If you become a mod, what will be your utmost priority as a mod?

[Guest silasun]

For that alone, you deserve minus-votes. Really.

 

:lol:

 

Question: If you become a mod, what will be your utmost priority as a mod?

 

See above

[Reza]

Top priority is to increase post counts and discussion quality.

Edited November 5, 2015 by magma

[Khadim uz Zahra]

For that alone, you deserve minus-votes. Really.

 

:lol:

 

Question: If you become a mod, what will be your utmost priority as a mod?

 

My top priority is to simply be fair, while maintaining as laissez faire an attitude as possible. Moderate, but only when needed.

[Sumayyeh]

Salam all, and congrats on your nominations.

 

I have a question for Magma--what accomplishments have you been able to accomplish as developer, and how is that role different that what you would do as moderator?

 

Question for all--how will you get the overwhelming # of guests on this site (as a candidate very well observed) to become subscribers?

 

Thanks! :)

Edited November 5, 2015 by Sumayyeh

[guest050817]

I voted for Magma, but i also want to see 'cake' be a moderator, and this is not to offend anyone that i did not vote for (i simply don't know everyone well!)

 

Shiachat moderators, diverse their views, from neutral to tatbir, to anti tatbir, to neutral to ya ali madad, to anti ya ali madad, are all reflections of this website.

 

Additionally, cake has posted some very, very high quality posts:

 

http://www.shiachat.com/forum/topic/235023659-comparison-between-kulayni-and-bukharis-shaykhs/

 

By making him a moderator, infact, making anyone a moderator may encourage them to post more perhaps? And perhaps feel a greater sense of duty?

 

Eitherway, if we can get posters who can write articles like that on board, maybe we can make them even more active.

 

This generation of shia-sunni debates is moving onto the finer aspects of hadiths/narrators/a deeper scrutiny of events, and i say SC needs members such as the nadre zaveri's, and abu tufayls.

 

I do want to also nominate another member, as i totally missed the nominations, that member is Islamic Salvation who has been on these boards for a very long time ,doing many translations and adding truly quality posts in discussions.

 

I'm not choosing these individuals so they get 'power' , but many outsiders when looking in at shia chat, judge us by our moderators - as magma put it beautifully, they are seen as the 'reflections' of this website, and hence i am voting for the direction i want our image to take.

Edited November 5, 2015 by Tawheed313

[Reza]

I have only been it for a few months, and I mostly facilitate discussions of forum issues with admins. I don't have any actual authority though. Being a moderator would allow me more functions and decision making ability on a day by day level.

[Sumayyeh]

^Thanks for the clarification Magma. 

 

Another question for you--out of curiosity--is there a significance behind your name...i.e."Magma"?

 

Let's make ShiaChat great again!

[Reza]

It represents the will of heat and energy, which is what we need.

Also guys, we don't win anymore. We're losing to Facebook, to Google, to Netflix, to schoolwork, to China, to live streaming cricket. I will make sure we win again.

Lets make ShiaChat great again!

Edited November 6, 2015 by magma

[Ruq]

I cant make my mind up =/ i'll vote for the person who posts the funniest picture.

[Reza]

[Abbas.]

All good so far. Interesting questions with equally interesting answers. 

 

Here are some more from me: 

 

Khadim: Considering that you guys are "members choice" and some of them may be counting on you more than other mods, don't you think your duties and values may be compromised by certain degree of bias in favour of members?

 

Magma: What if members want you to advocate a reasonable rule or value, but majority of team disagrees, how are you going to deal with the situation? What position are you going to take in terms of that proposal and how are you going to deal with both the members and team members? 

[David66]

 Hello,

 

  Isn't it about time Shia Chat demonstrated it's inclusiveness and appointed a non-Muslim moderator?  There are quite a few of us you know.

 

All the Best,

David