[WikiEN-l] Controversial user nicknames

Tue Aug 26 13:53:46 UTC 2003

james duffy wrote:
> We have a policy about no offensive usernames. But does that cover
> the names of famous figures who are themselves controversial? Saddam
> Hussein is a classic example.

I would say that it would be best to not use the names of famous
figures, especially famous figures who are still living or only
recently deceased.  I would include both real names of real people, as
well as famous character names from books, movies, etc.

It seems unlikely that this needs to rise to the level of enforceable
policy, although encouraging a high standard of conduct generally is a
good thing.

Therefore, I really like the way you wrote this, although I'm sure
someone clever can suggest some improvements.  I like phrasing things
in terms of recommendations and community norms, rather than in terms
of 'you are not allowed to do this'.

I should add, of course, that for some offensive names, I do think
'you are not allowed to do this' is the appropriate response.

> Remember when using a user nic that a controversial name that may
> colour other users' perspective on your own credibility or political
> vewpoint. In addition remember that wikipedia is a world-wide source
> book and so take care in selecting a name to avoid anything that
> might potentially cause offence to someone from a different culture,
> religious or ethnic group. As such wikipedia recommends that users
> avoid
> 
> 1. Names of twentieth or twenty-first century politicians, military or 
> religious figures or events;
> 2. Any other names that may be seen as potentially offensive, or endorsing 
> the politics, policies or beliefs of a public figure.
> 3. The following specific public names or any variation should not under any 
> circumstances be used due to their controversial nature and potential 
> offence:
> 
> Adolf Hitler,
> Josef Stalin,
> Benito Mussolini,
> Saddam Hussein,
> Chairman Mao,
> Pol Pot,
> Yasser Arafat,
> Ariel Sharon.

> 4. Historic names (19th century or earlier) may of course be used
> but the less controversial the better. People should be able to
> judge you purely on your contributions, not an emotional response to
> a potentially controversial nickname. Avoiding an offensive or
> insensitive name is in your own interest.  So do please be
> careful. Remember you are working as part of a community.  Show
> everyone else the respect for their beliefs that you expect them to
> show to you.

> Any observations?

Primarily, that I like things that are written like this, emphasizing
mutual respect and the seriousness of what we are trying to
accomplish.

--Jimbo