In my opinion, the ECF members (and mods) should be called out to argue their positions. Here or somewhere else, it matters not. If they are "right" it should be easy for them. If they are "wrong", they will refuse the "challenge" and may then be labeled as the reader sees fit.
I'm guessing the latter.....
Yes, of course it's the latter. They don't argue their position because they don't have to. They can always refer anyone to the rules they themselves agreed to on joining (leaving aside their wacky and whimsical interpretations of said rules) then close the discussion or the thread, warn, ban--whatever. That is why if it is worth thinking about ways to impact or communicate with the ECF user base, any effective result won't take the form of a normal, civilized discussion, certainly not with the moderators. The "going by the usual protocols" type of options are just not on the table because it's like it or lump it over there. Which, by the way, plenty of people are willing to accept and even defend. As long as its not phrased in that particular way. We must have some semblance of dignity. (Or something).
As has been pointed out, discussing the rules of ECF in a way that is deemed negative by the mods is itself against the rules. That leaves no straightforward option for influencing the situation.
Those who responded to the signature line bomb idea described earlier thought it was too much trouble--would take too much energy, might not be effective anyway, etc. The other objection was that people would not be interested or that people are too dumb--oh, and that there just plain aren't enough people using ECF for it to matter.
Has anyone noticed there is always a thread going here about ecf, into which people pour limitless energy to bitch and gripe?
Now, maybe the function of these threads is just to blow off steam, which is fine--whatever--perfectly valid. But given the amount of steam that clearly exists, it's obvious to me that the energy or capability to get some kind of effective action together is not what's at issue. It's simply a matter of interest and will.
At the moment, both of mine are in short supply. I spose I will revisit in some other place/way the ideas I've kicked around here when I have recharged have something more concrete to offer. Adieu, sweet thread, and happy grumbling!