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Talking Politics in ActiveRain? Let’s Set Some Ground Rules!

By
Real Estate Agent

While responding to my weekend emails, I received my daily email update from THE PROBLOGGER HIMSELF Darren Rowse. What was today's topic? 

Seven Tips for Writing About Politics - A Guest Post by Allen McDuffee

Allen McDuffee writes for The Nation, Mother Jones and the New York Observer.

When reading the title of Mr. McDuffee's article, I was reminded of my Open Letter to Commenter #44 on last Monday. Though I'm not a big fan of political blogging on this platform, momma taught me to not place my standards on others. Hence, let's agree to set some rules.

Rule One - RESPRECT YOURSELF AND OTHERS!

Rule Two - Blog by The Golden Rule!

After these two rules, I'm open to suggestions from Mr. McDuffee and my ActiveRain Family.

1. Should we be blogging about politics on this platform?

2. If we are going to use ActiveRain as a political soapbox, what rules would your recommend?

Thanks for reading and contributing. Have A Great Week!

Show All Comments
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker

I think it is ok to discuss politics here with only two rules common sense and common courtesy?

Mar 15, 2009 07:50 AM
Terry Miller
Miller Homes Group - Tyler, TX
Miller Homes Group and Tyler Apartment Locator

I agree with common sense and common courtesy. Also don't be to long winded.

Mar 15, 2009 09:50 AM
Mark Brian
Silver Star Real Estate LLC - Anderson, SC
Anderson SC Realtor

It is often best not to discuss politics, religion, sports, etc etc- we all have our opinions. It is so easy to offend or be offended when discussing certain topics.

In general, as long as you always agree with whatever crazy idea I am in favor of, there will be no problem! LOL

Mar 15, 2009 10:19 AM
Linda Breeding
Keller Williams Realty - Pinehurst, NC

I never voice my opinion about politics online but I sure enjoy reading them. Of course my opionion is always the correct one anyway. LOL 

When reading the blogs, I find myself shaking my head, laughing, smiling, even thinking, "that person just doesn't get it". Oh well, to each his own. If you blog politics, yes I agree, the golden rule should be followed.

Mar 15, 2009 12:06 PM
Carol Culkin
Diamond Partners Inc - Overland Park, KS
Overland Park Residential Real Estate

David - I think it is wrong to use this as a forum to discuss politics or religion. I have seen two very heated discussions this weekend in regard to these subjects. I think it needs to STOP.  

Mar 15, 2009 02:01 PM
Janna Scharf
Keller Williams Realty Coeur d'Alene - Coeur d'Alene, ID
Coeur d'Alene Idaho Real Estate Expert

I don't think it is WRONG, but I also don't think it is SMART.  What is your purpose and objective to being on AR?  I doubt it's political.  But politics and religion are a huge part of who we are and of course our views and values overflow from us in everything we say and do, always.  For those that want to vent or get exercised about something political or spiritual, there are better platforms for doing that.  This is a REAL ESTATE network.  It would make sense to me for those types of posts to be to certain groups of like-minded people on AR, if at all.  But then, no one needs to click and read something they don't want to, anyway.  So what's the big deal? 

Mar 15, 2009 03:06 PM
Monica Bourgeau
Portland, OR
Business Coaching

Hi David - nice groundrule. I think politics should be ovoided completely myself. Buyers have so many choice for Realtors, they are looking for a reason to reject you. Why would you want to limit yourself to clients of a certain political party? I've even seen some of the political posts featured. It just doesn't make sense.

Mar 16, 2009 04:29 PM
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