as the general election draws closer, we fully realize that members may have some discussions on politics........

however

our guidelines are very very clear on this subject:

http://neurotalk.psychcentral.com/showthread.php?t=1293

where generic discussion will be allowed, we need to notify you in advance that any post that in any way becomes too political or that expresses one political view by being negative about the other will be edited or removed and threads will be closed if they become political debates or battlegrounds.

We understand you are all adults and that political discourse is often very interesting and informative. But such discussions also quickly turn negative toward others and can end up ruffling feathers and having major upsets

so
if you cant post in a general positive way, even when you may disagree, then please dont post.

If we cant maintain an air of civility and mutual respect in political posts, we will have no choice but to totally prohibit them. We have to remember first and foremost that the mission of this community is self help and mutual support for neurological illness. When people get triggered and upset, it can make their illness flare. Our responsibility is to try to avoid that for the sake of all our members.

everyone's co-operation on this will be much appreciated

So here's the deal... It's a presidential election year here in the U.S., so discussion of politics is desired and inevitable.

But let's arise above the level of calling one another's candidates names or making snide innuendos about their background based upon rumor or gossip. While such things have a rich history in U.S. politics dating back even before our gaining our independence, they seem a little out of place in discussions amongst mature adults in a neurological support forum, no?

I honestly prefer people stick to the issues and discuss the issues, not personal characteristics of the candidates. So while discussing McCain's age or Obama's political experience might be fair game, let's avoid the kind of attacks on their person just for the sake of attacking without making a legitimate point.

We have a strong limit but not a ban on political discussion at this time. Let's keep it a limit and not turn it into a ban, with your cooperation... Thanks!

DocJohn