I have been a reader of TasTimes for four and a half years and greatly value people’s articles and views covering a wide range of topics. I have learnt a lot about Tasmania, Government, Politics and what other people see, value, believe in and are concerned about. It has made me stop and think. It’s made me aware of the silent (not reported) alternative and additional side to politics, events, as well as people concerns and values. I particularly value the many articles with links to related and supporting material. It’s an education. We should have young persons’ TasTimes in every school and higher education organisation.
However, what I value the most and I am sure the article writer’s value also is the comments made by other people. You can read other people’s angles on the article; there can be a whole new side or fresh approach raised, with more information and of course sometimes a totally differing view being posted.
I totally support TasTimes’ cheeky and irreverent approach.
In the last year 40% of comments have expressed anger with other people’s comments. These comments have not been constructive or informative or based on furthering the scope or understanding and substance of the original article or those of subsequent comments. These types of comments have just been point scoring and besmirching of other commentators and posts. We are debasing the value and opportunity that Tas Times offers us and for all Tasmanians to enrich their lives and to gain a greater appreciation of other people’s knowledge, observations, concerns, and views. We are losing the opportunity to read what the other conventional media will not research and report upon or with “out fear or favour”.
I personally know of established writers who are very reluctant to post articles because of the forensic and belittling comments that are subsequently posted. In addition, we are scaring off those potential writers and contributors who have always wanted to express some concern that is important to them, or who have some information to pass on, or those that have good ideas or insight or who just want to add to the debate. Very few of us can get our articles or comments published in the conventional media. Tas Times is the only opportunity to express our views and to appreciate the other side of the story, and this is valuable. We are certainly scaring off younger people, and other people who may not be prepared to stand the subsequent robust and belittling comments.
I say value Tas Times and the great insight, commentary, information and links that it offers – give every body the open opportunity to contribute on any subject – and if you can not add sensibly and constructively to any article or comments – DON’T POST.
