Feedback and suggestions: Use of Non-English

[SugarfootWillie 383]

So I think there needs to a revision made to the global rules in regard to the use of non-English languages.

 

To quote the rule:

 

"Write in proper, legible English. While we appreciate members from across the globe, please remember that you are on an English-speaking forum run by English-speaking staff. This poses a problem when we cannot moderate content that we cannot read. In some cases foreign language quotes are acceptable though. Our FAQ entry delves into that in more detail. In addition, while we do not require perfect grammar, you should at least try to punctuate, capitalize, space, and spell properly. For example, taking a few moments to proofread that you have capitalized an 'i' goes a long way with us."

 

As it is enforced now, the rule of using English is too absolute. Perhaps it would be better to modify this rule to allow non-English under certain circumstances (such as artistic effect or role-playing), and require a translation to English within the same post as a footnote.

 

[Jeric 46,852]

This recently was discussed by staff prior to this topic so this is very fresh in my mind.

 

It is not absolute at all, if you read the FAQ it explains where the exceptions are (of which there are several). In the end this is an English speaking site, and the staff has an obligation to the members and other parties to ensure the content does not violate or promise to promote a safe and welcoming environment. That includes the pragmatic need to not have to run a translator against content posted on our forum. For one it is too time consuming, and two ... online translators or notoriously bad and a bad translator could wind up with a member facing scrutiny unfairly. There are other reasons as well, but I feel the current rule is definitely more favorable than the original interpretation of no foreign language at all.

 

I'm sorry that wasn't the answer you were hoping for, but that is the approach we take and will continue to take.