Removing A Provocative Member

Imagine you have a prvocative member. S/he provokes everyone. S/he goads people, criticizes every idea and is universally hated by the community.

Should s/he be removed? Sometimes, sure. However...

Provocative members perform an interesting role within a community. They unite the community against them. They establish traditions within the community. They create common goals and a stronger sense of community amongst members.

The provocative member may be good for the community. This is true for many things the community dislikes. The unity in disliking may be a great solidifier for the community. You remove remove the provocative member and find that activity and the sense of community amongst members drops.

This isn't to say that you should or shouldn't ban provocative members. It's to say that it's more complicated than it appears. You don't remove members you (or the community) dislike, you remove members that aren't good for the community. They're not the same.

Comments

[Michael Howard]

Good post.
It would take a serious breach of community guidelines for me to ban a member. It's the grit that makes the pearl; an opinionated member of the community stimulates discussion and often helps others to formulate and post their opposing arguments. A well-moderated lively debate is far better than a cosy consensus.

[Pete Austin @marketingxd]

I hate suck-ups most, especially when their real motive is self-publicity. They contribute nothing except massaging the author's ego.

[Michael Howard]

And a very good morning to you Pete. Are you being a Provocative Member?

[medyum]

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