Does this forum have a documented etiquette or rules? There was a recent (and probably justified) request for "a set of rules which protect users from 'swearing' and 'hate speech' and unfounded allegations" ?

If so, please can you point me to the URL? All I can find is this thread.

What additions would people like to see?

You don't need a list of rules, all you need is for everyone to use their full real names and the disrespect will vanish. We will still have opinionated debate (if we didn't then I would stop logging on), but it will be a debate not personal insults and ranting.

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There's no point being pessimistic, because it probably won't work

Guy,

I've seen derogatory names used in face-to-face communication. I don't see how a forum would be different, whether real-name or anonymous.

I think Snort's points are a good base line:
* no derogatory names
* comment on the action (or the opinion) - don't comment on the person
* don't deviate from the thread.

I'd add another two:
* be prepared to justify, substantiate or recant any "facts" presented.
* don't expect others to do research for you.

with proportional sanctions for repeat offenders (and possibly an exception for Off-Topic).

See this site for some possibilities (though I think their commission is way too low).