Banned from a forum by a "host"?

[Socialistlemur]

I think either last year or the previous year I was banned from a forum by a host. I can't recall the details. To be honest I'm not suffering a crisis from it, and I find the DU set up to be fine. However, it does seem a bit arrogant for a single individual to have the ability to ban comments forever. The whole idea seems a bit inefficient, because it creates an environment where there's no debate (the forum becomes an echo chamber where all participants have to more or less agree with the host).

Conversely, if a forum is ruled in such an autocratic fashion, is it possible to create a parallel forum which could be labeled "forum subject yy, diversity of opinion encouraged"?

[In_The_Wind]

1. Last year I was banned by a Host who is no longer a Host.

[BainsBane]

2. You can be banned from groups, not forums

Groups are set up by members, forums by the owners of the site. If the owners want to ban someone, they tombstone them.

[Socialistlemur]

3. Thanks. So let's try a hypothetical case...

I get banned from a "group" by a "host" for expressing views he or she didn't like. However, I'm interested in the subject, and I don't consider myself an extremist, nor do I tend to use coarse or offensive language. I guess you could characterize me as the proverbial opposite to a lemming, I prefer to have my own ideas.

For example, a few years ago I belonged to Common dreams, and I got banned because I expressed views opposed to the Israeli government (I saw the ascendancy of the extreme right wing led by guys like Avigdor Lieberman and Netanyahu, and I felt Israel was headed in the wrong direction). Common dreams had the right to ban me, I suppose. And I guess they can also be an echo chamber in that particular subject.

So, I was thinking that opinions evolve over time, and one has to be willing to listen to others, and factor in what they say. So the question I guess I have is can one create a "Group" similar to one which already exists but in which participants are allowed free expression?

[BainsBane]

4. Usually you're banned from a group because you don't fit the SOP of that group

You could conceivably propose a group on a similar topic but with a different SOP, and if enough people show interest, the administrators might create it. The other option is for you to contact the host and ask them to consider lifting the ban. However, if your views are counter to the SOP, you'll only end up getting banned again.

It's hard to talk about in the abstract. but that is generally how it works.

[jambo101]

5. Playing by other peoples rules and regulations.

Participating in forums means you are subject to rules and regulations that you have no control over,some forums you'll fit in just fine others you'll be subjected to over zealous moderation and be continually deleted,infracted and or banned.
Dont take banning too personally, either put up with it or move on to another forum..

[Skittles]

6. BOG?

consider it an honor