On-line Commandments

The Church of England released a set of guidelines yesterday, relating to how to conduct yourself on the INTERNET.  They're being nicknamed  "Online Commandments."

Here's what they say . . .

1.  Be safe.  The safety of children, young people, and vulnerable adults must be maintained.

2.  Be respectful.  Do not post or share content that is sexually explicit, inflammatory, hateful, abusive, threatening, or otherwise disrespectful.

3.  Be kind.  Treat others how you would wish to be treated, and assume the best in people.  If you have a criticism or critique to make, consider not just whether you would say it in person, but the tone you would use.

4.  Be honest.  Don’t mislead people about who you are.

5.  Take responsibility.  You are accountable for the things you do, say, and write.

6.  Be a good ambassador.  Personal and professional life can easily become blurred online.  So think before you post.

7.  Disagree well.  Some conversations can be places of robust disagreement, and it’s important we apply our values in the way we express them.

8.  Credit others.  Acknowledge the work of others.  Respect copyrights, and always give credit where credit's due.  But be careful about sensitive or confidential information.  And always question sources before you repost.

9.  Follow the rules.  Abide by the terms and conditions of the various social media platforms.  And report people who don't.

If you use social media which I do regularly, don't you think it is about time for some reasonable guidelines? These probably will not have much bearing here in the States, but it does give parents a path to follow when their kids start going online.

(ABC News / Church of England)