User:Caius/wikilawyering

First, let's go over the difference between rules and standards. A rule is an ironclad, "X implies Y outcome" prescriptive law, and a standard sets forth a range of criteria which collectively do not necessarily imply an outcome, but guide an inquiry, and allow a factfinder to apply a law. I think this wiki is all about not having "rules," but given the dissatisfaction of some users, perhaps we need some standards. So, discuss below. I've drafted some ideas.

Do we need better guidelines on sysop elevation?
Current RationalWiki sysops decide when another sysop is "needed." Since being a sysop is not really something to aspire to - it confers certain powerz, but comes with a good deal more responsibility - the group designation is not an honorific, but an expression of trust coupled with need. When the sysops decide a new one is needed, a user will be elevated if they (1) have a history of positive content and procedure contributions, over some to-be-determined timeframe, (2) their appointment would not offend a large group of members,and (3) are not actively adverse to the mission or RW.

Do we need standards about dealing with trolls?
Trolling activity is defined on RW as; "Deliberately angering people. Breaking the normal flow of debate/discussion. Making itself the main topic of interest or discussion". Users who are obviously guilty of this activity will be blocked at sysop discretion.

Do we need to clarify the line between sysops expressing personal opinions, and sysops "abusing" users?
Sysops and Bureaucrats speak for themselves, and not the Wiki. As a matter of Rational Wiki policy, sysops exercise no more editorial control than other users. Their opinions do not represent a mandatory line not to be crossed, unless the Admin specifically states something as "policy", or makes it apparent they are instructing a user as to our policy or guidelines. Therefore, the Wiki does not express an opinion when a sysop expresses an opinion. However, by virtue of their authority (ability to delete, lock and block users), sysops are strongly discouraged from troll baiting or badgering users. Removal/demotion of a sysop or bureaucrat for the same will occur only when it becomes a pattern, and the abuser has been warned by others.