Actually, that's really the thought I had before starting the thread i.e that given enough rope to hang themselves, adults generally won't. There might sometimes be a bit of jostling and taking of names, but in the end the pervasive feeling seems to be one of maintaining the kind of place 'we' want to keep returning to i.e self-moderation (aka not shitting on our own collective doorstep).I think it's because the forum is geared toward orchestral music creation, which is a job/hobby that, like gardening and antique collecting, attracts primarily civil adults. For that reason, there is far less moderation needed here than on forums for topics like gaming, politics, sports, or celebrities.
Oh yeah...I've been on a completely un-moderated forum, even advocating for it to remain as such. Seems like a pretty good idea, in principle (free-speech, and all that), but it doesn't take long to just degenerate into an awful mess.The small amount of moderation that does happen when members cause problems is crucial. When a forum is disbanded or otherwise left un-moderated, a form of entropy takes over. First, foul-mouthed trolls dig in and drive the civil members away. Then spam bots discover the site and drive the trolls out with ads for prescription medication, tactical knives, and home loans.
So, to anyone who came to VI-Control today to buy an iPhone for 90% off or Tramadol at wholesale prices, you're a little early. Please check back in 20 years.
Having said that, if you know where I can get some Tramadol and a Balisong I'd really appreciate it