My Comments Policy

As you know, I have recently migrated platforms, and made have setup comments to be easier my site. I am excited about expanding the conversation. But, without a few simple ground rules, that conversation can turn into a shouting match that discourages others from entering into the fray.

So here is my comments policy. By posting on my blog, you agree to the following:

• • You may comment without registering. You can log-in via Disqus, OpenID, Twitter, Facebook—or not at all. It’s up to you.

• • You may post anonymously. I don’t recommend this, but you may do so if you wish. I’m testing this, and we’ll see how it goes. It may change if it is abused.

• • You may post follow-up questions. If you have a question, chances are you are not alone. Others are likely thinking similarly.

I would rather respond to comments on my blog than via email. It is a better use of my time, and it helps all who had the question.

• • You may disagree with me. I welcome debate. However, I ask that if you disagree with me—or anyone else, for that matter—do so in a way that is respectful. In my opinion, there is way too much shouting in the public square to tolerate it here.

• I reserve the right to delete your comments. This is my blog. I don’t have an obligation to publish your comments. If you’re a U.S. citizen, The First Amendment gives you the right to express your opinions on your blog not mine.

Specifically, I will delete your comments if you post something that is, in my sole opinion, (a) snarky; (b) off-topic; (c) libelous, defamatory, abusive, harassing, threatening, profane, pornographic, offensive, false, misleading, or which otherwise violates or encourages others to violate my sense of decorum and civility or any law, including intellectual property laws; or (d) “spam,” i.e., an attempt to advertise, solicit, or otherwise promote goods and services.

You may, however, post a link to your site or your most recent blog post.

• You retain ownership of your comments. I do not own them and I expressly disclaim any and all liability that may result from them.

By commenting on my site, you agree that you retain all ownership rights in what you post here and that you will relieve me from any and all liability that may result from those postings.

• You grant me a license to post your comments. This license is worldwide, irrevocable, non-exclusive, and royalty-free. You grant me the right to store, use, transmit, display, publish, reproduce, and distribute your comments in any format, including but not limited to a blog, in a book, a video, or presentation.

In short, my goal is to host interesting conversations with caring, honest, and respectful people. I believe this simple comments policy gives everyone a framework of expectations to accomplish this.

Enjoy the journey!