Understanding the 'Be Nice Be Respectful' Policy on Quora and Its Implications

As a user of Quora, you may have encountered situations where you felt your posts were censored under the 'Be Nice Be Respectful' (BNBR) policy, even when you believed it did not apply. This article aims to clarify the nuances of the BNBR policy and provide insights into how it is implemented and whether it should be invoked in certain circumstances.

Why Does Quora Allow People to Censor Your Posts under BNBR?

The question often arises: why does Quora allow users to invoke the BNBR policy when they disagree with your opinion, even if it does not apply? To answer this, we need to understand the broader context and the reasons behind the policy.

Quora, like any other community platform, operates under certain community guidelines that aim to maintain a respectful and inclusive environment. The BNBR policy is one of these guidelines. It is designed to encourage users to be considerate and respectful of others' opinions and feelings, fostering a positive dialogue.

Challenging the BNBR Policy

It is important to note that if you feel a BNBR warning is undeserved, you have the option to appeal it. According to official Quora rules, if your appeal is successful, the warning will be reversed, and your post will be reinstated. For instance, I once received a completely undeserved BNBR warning, and it was corrected within 15 minutes after my appeal.

However, the process of appealing can be challenging. It often requires a clear and rational explanation of why you believe the warning was wrong. Emotional responses or perceived slights may not be enough to overturn a BNBR warning.

Personal Experiences with BNBR

Since my first post on Quora in 2014, I have experienced several instances where my answers and comments were questioned and subsequently deleted. In one recent instance, a comment of mine was removed for alleged violation of the BNBR policy, even though it was based on a reasoned defense of my answer.

The incident highlights the subjective nature of the BNBR policy. What one person deems as offensive may not align with your own perspective. Quora, in its role as a forum, provides a platform for sharing expertise and knowledge, but it also needs to ensure that discussions remain respectful and constructive.

Quora as a Community Forum

It is essential to remember that Quora is not a personal space like a relationship or a family member. It is a platform where everyone has the opportunity to contribute their knowledge and insights. If Quora makes a judgment call about something you wrote, it is not like your mother disapproving of your appearance or your best friend taking offense at something you said. It is more like Quora is suggesting that you may have said something that could be misunderstood or offensive to others.

The platform is designed to help users gauge their audience and adjust their tone or content accordingly. This is not about restricting freedom of expression but rather about fostering a respectful and inclusive environment.

Addressing Patterned Misuse of BNBR

Occasionally, you may encounter individuals who consistently and unfairly report your posts, potentially distorting the enforcement of community guidelines. Unfortunately, the prospect of appealing such decisions is often challenging, with no guarantee of a positive outcome.

It would be helpful if Quora could provide more transparency and give users the option to edit their posts in response to reporting. I hope that Quora is keeping records of those who engage in such behavior and is considering reducing their credibility within the platform. However, current practices do not always achieve this goal effectively.

Conclusion

Understanding and navigating the BNBR policy on Quora requires a balanced approach. While the policy aims to create a respectful and inclusive environment, it is not without challenges. By appealing incorrect warnings and learning to navigate the nuances of the policy, users can better contribute to the platform and foster meaningful conversations.

Remember, Quora is a community forum where you can share your knowledge and insights. The ultimate goal is to create a space where everyone feels heard and respected.