The #1 rule of Oppo is “Be excellent to each other.” It is such a cornerstone of the group that it is also the second rule.
Political discussion on Oppo produces far more negative content and attitudes than everything else combined. The only people who reply in political posts are there to argue against the point of view of the original post. Arguing is the only point of politics on Oppo(and in life), and very quickly leads to members not being excellent to each other. It turns Oppo into the front page in the best of cases and Facebook in the worst.
Politics turn normally very pleasant and interesting contributors into childish dickbags within the span of 1 or 2 replies. This is true for the supporters of both parties equally. There is a small but very vocal group (probably 7-8 regulars) that turn any post with views different than their own into something Oppo should be ashamed of. This is all caused because of the emotional importance some people put on politics that makes them incapable of having civil discourse. That’s why these are the only people who post politics on Oppo and secretly love fighting about it.
“5. DON’T shit stir, in either direction.” is another rule. By posting political content you are shit stirring. By replying to political content you are shit stirring. The only way political enthusiasts respond to these posts and replies is with aggressive close-mindedness. The type of people who would reply to political posts in a balanced and understanding manner are the type who avoid politics all together.
With such a volatile election season upcoming, this problem is only going to get worse and make Oppo an inhospitable place for fans of being friendly. Personally, I had to step away for a few months back in 2016 just to avoid the constant negativity and hatefulness that spreads its wings surrounding the choosing of our POTUS.
I believe the essence of politics goes against the code of conduct for Oppo and should be banned. Cigar Lounge is happy to take in those who insist on discussing politics. Except Cigar Lounge is almost dead, because most of the posts are political and not very many people like that. I think a fair way to get a good opinion on this would be to have a simple poll. Perhaps a mod could put one together so the user base has a voice in the direction of this community.
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On another note. Mods.
The list of mods has been the same for a ridiculously long time. Many are not an active part of this community anymore for various reasons.
Porsche9146 Last Oppo Post 1/11/16, currently a contributor on the front page.
Gamecat235 Last Oppo Post 1/28/19, before that 1/12/18.
Nobody Last Oppo post unknown due to complications searching his name.
Brian1321 Last Oppo post 7/7/16, before that 7/28/15.
Pauljones Last Oppo post 6/18/19, before that 1/31/17.
Demon-Xanth Last Oppo Post 12/16/19, regular contributor.
Snapundersteer Italianspiderman Last Oppo post 12/13/19, regular contributor.
For Sweden Last Oppo post 12/16/19, regular contributor.
Dusty Ventures Last Oppo post 12/15/19, regular contributor.
Party-VI Last Oppo post 12/4/19, regular contributor.
Brian, the life of Last Oppo post 11/25/19, regular contributor.
Crown Victor Victoria Last Oppo post 10/24/19, before that 3/4/18, 4/25/17, 8/30/16.
More Power!! And also some brakes Last Oppo post 12/2/19, regular contributor.
Axel-Ripper Last Oppo post 11/11/16.
Delta Five Nine Last Oppo post 6/13/15.
$kaycog Last Oppo post 11/23/19, regular contributor.
Jagvar Last Oppo post 9/24/19, before that 11/18/18.
Hammerhead Fistpunch Last Oppo post 12/17/19, regular contributor.
Arch Duke Maxyenko Last Oppo post 12/17/19, regular contributor.
Yamahog Last Oppo post 4/29/19.
I’ve been a regular reader on Jalopnik since early 2005 and a lurker/contributor on Oppo since shortly after it’s launch. Most of the mods are from the old days. They created fantastic content that still stands out to me now and most of them were cornerstones of what Oppo is today. I seriously miss some of the content they produced. I have the utmost respect for most of them and thank them for their service here.
That said, I don’t think people who don’t regularly contribute to this special community should have a say in how it’s managed. Ten of the twenty mods aren’t regulars here. A mod should be a pillar of the community and someone to set an example of good behavior. Those that aren’t regulars should have their mod privileges removed and be replaced by current members of the group.
There are numerous Oppos who have been contributing great content for years, never start shit, and support this great corner of the world wide web. There are Oppos who have literally had their lives/outlooks changed by the community provided here and want the absolute best for this little escape from everyday realities. They should have a chance to moderate here and reflect the attitude of the current community.
Note that this is still part of the guidelines:
Political / Sensitive topics are welcome, even encouraged, however it is recommended that you announce such content in the title and that all sensitive material is posted “after the jump.”
TL/DR: Politics are inherently against “Be excellent to each other”, we need a few new mods.
