[NTLUG:Discuss] list etiquette

[Kevin E. Ivey]

terry wrote:
> Paul Ingendorf wrote:
> 
>> I would like to try and add some light to the "netiquette" of email.  
>> Most
>> people take it for granted that all e-mail top posted, newsgroups are 
>> bottom
>> posted. 
> 
> I disagree.  In most cases, top posting to regular email is just as 
> confusing as it is to newsgroup email.

<obviously snipped>

The whole point of using written type is to convert speech into 
nonspoken discussion.

Therefore, in order to preserve the natural and normal chronological 
order of conversation (discussion, which is what mail lists and usenet 
ARE) the original post should be shown first and should agree with the 
Subject: line of the post.  After that, using a natural human technique 
of injection and response, the responder should add, remove(!), and 
reposition text as necessary to make his point or to add to the 
"conversation".

"Top responding" mangles this and causes the reader to scroll down to 
the original and subsequent posts in order to have any idea what is 
being discussed.

To wit: keep it short, in order and to the point.  That is the 
"netiquette" of electronic messaging.

I shall now retire to my flameproof residence and peer through the dark 
green glass panel on the door.

Good Day,

keVIn