Bear Flag Blog

From this point forward, and also retroactively, all commentary to posts on this blog (and any linked post appearances such as on Facebook) are instructed to observe Commentary Rule Nine. For those unfamiliar with Rule #9, which is not surprising as I am coining it at the moment, here it is:

Commentary Rule #9: Assume reasonableness

Which is to say, do not make observations or ask questions based on the premise that the poster is unreasonable or foolish. Assume that anything obvious which is left unsaid is unsaid because it is obvious, not because the poster did not realize it. Do not extrapolate to ridiculous extremes because said extremes were not explicitly precluded. Do not use overly broad interpretations when what is being discussed is clearly but only implicitly circumscribed.

This applies only to posts which do not invite unreasonableness by being obviously unreasonable, such as rants and other forms of humor by excess. Those are clearly fair game for equal reciprocation.

Examples:
Were I to state that I prefer to take my shirt off by lifting from the collar, rather than the hem, it would be a violation of Rule #9 to ask "Even button-down shirts?"

Were I to state that Republicans are continually seeking to weaken consumer protections, it would be a violation of Rule #9 to reply "But what about Theodore Roosevelt?"

As mentioned, this rule is hereby in effect for this blog. You are also at liberty - nay, encouraged to - invoke rule #9 for your own exposition, in any format.

And of course, this post itself is subject to Rule #9.

I do want to hear from you and I do give a damn about your opinion (well, most of you), but if I wanted to write small print to cover every eventuality I would have been an attorney.