Reddit Bans Five Online Communities for Harassment
Popular online discussion and message board Reddit recently banned five of its online communities, or 'subreddits' due to claims of harassment. Known as the 'front page of the internet', the site is known for its loose policing of posts and discussions and is regarded by many as a place for open discussion in a slowly censorship dominated internet landscape. However in May, Reddit changed its policies in a bid to stop attacks and harassment against users.
In a blog post made on the site, interim CEO Ellen Pao and two other key figures at the company said that "we're banning behaviour not ideas." The site's leaders said they are targeting subreddits that attack people, not those with offensive content.
"Our goal is to enable as many people as possible to have authentic conversations and share ideas and content on an open platform," the post read. "We want as little involvement as possible in managing these interactions but will be involved when needed to protect privacy and free expression, and to prevent harassment." Said the blog.
According to Reddit, Harassment is defined as systematic or continued actions to torment or demean someone in a way that would make a reasonable person conclude that it is not a safe platform to express their ideas or participate in the conversation, or fear for their safety or of those around them.
Some people were critical of the decision, in an article posted by PCworld, several users voiced their displeasure. One said: "I can't say I liked any of the 5 banned subs, but seems like freedom of expression shouldn't be banned."
The Independent says Reddit's move may signal 'a beginning of the end' for the site and writing that it may be on the 'verge of collapse.'
