A data-driven analysis of the ACX/SSC comment section quality over time reveals historical peaks and valleys, with recent signs of improvement after previous declines in 2016 and 2021. Longer summary

This review analyzes the quality of the Astral Codex Ten (ACX) comment section over time, comparing it to its predecessor Slate Star Codex (SSC). Through detailed data analysis of 1.8M comments across 2,460 posts, the author identifies two major changes in comment quality - one in 2016 and another during the 2021 transition to ACX. The analysis looks at four key metrics: depth of engagement, freedom of intellectual engagement, politeness, and complexity of thought. While the data shows a decline after these turning points, recent trends suggest the comment section may be recovering. The author explores several hypotheses for the 2016 decline, including changes in post frequency and the impact of Trump's rise on discussion norms. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander explains ACX's comment policy, requiring comments to be at least two of true, necessary, and kind, and lists recent bans. Longer summary

This post outlines the comment policy for Astral Codex Ten (ACX), adapting a saying attributed to ancient Sufis and the Buddha. The policy requires comments to meet at least two of three criteria: true, necessary, and kind. Scott Alexander explains each combination and provides guidelines for acceptable comments. He also mentions societal taboos and his approach to free speech, reserving the right to ban users who consistently post very taboo content. The post concludes with a list of recent bans on the ACX blog. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander introduces a comment policy for his blog based on the criteria of truth, necessity, and kindness, along with a reporting system and moderation approach. Longer summary

Scott Alexander outlines the comment policy for his blog, inspired by a Victorian-era saying often misattributed to Sufis and Buddha. The policy requires comments to meet at least two of three criteria: true, necessary, and kind. Scott explains each combination and provides examples. He emphasizes that the standards are relatively lax but still prohibit threats, doxxing, and slurs. Scott introduces a reporting system for comments and describes his approach to moderation, including a tiered ban system for policy violations. He acknowledges concerns about low-quality commenters and expresses intent to be more strict in moderation. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander asks readers for suggestions on a new comments policy for his blog, outlining five key criteria it should meet. Longer summary

Scott Alexander is seeking suggestions for a new comments policy for his blog. He outlines five desired properties for the policy: it should make the comments section enjoyable for moderately easily scandalized people without stifling relevant controversial discussions, not require constant vigilance from him, avoid excessive subjectivity in moderation, be technologically feasible, and result in polite, productive discussions. He invites readers to share their ideas, whether they're comprehensive policies or just vague preferences. Shorter summary