User talk:Illboding

Bliss virus
Hi – this is a reply to the tweets and email I have received regarding your objections to my edit to the Bliss (virus) article.

Firstly, I will ask you not to make assumptions about editors' expertise. It doesn't matter if someone has experience or is qualified in a certain field. As we don't use our own original research, it's irrelevant if an editor has expertise or not – it is fundamental to Wikipedia that anyone can edit articles in any field.

I believe it's this edit you take issue with (seeing as it's the only one I've made to that page). In summary, I replaced the words "AKA firebug (who has since passed away as of July '10)" with "(also known as "Firebug")".

Your major contention seems to be that I'm speaking ill of the dead. I'd NEVER wish to do this in any circumstances, but what you're accusing me is ridiculous. I suggest you read WP:EUPHEMISM. As a general rule we do not use the phrase "passed away". The word "died" is neutral and unproblematic. However, I suspect it's not just the word you object to. I removed all mention of Firebug's death as it isn't particularly important to the Bliss (virus) article – or at least the article doesn't imply so. It would, however, be important if there was an article on the individual. Remember that Wikipedia is not a memorial.

However, if you have objection to the fact that all mention of Firebug has been removed from the article, check the history and talk to the user who actually removed it. I don't object to User:67.189.28.196's removal, not because of the content, but the fact it was unsourced. Any material lacking a reliable source that directly supports it can be removed on sight.

I understand that if this is a subject you're closely linked to it can be difficult (and emotional if it involves someone's death), but please understand that we run in a particular way to ensure that Wikipedia is neutral and verifiable.

I'd be happy to answer any questions you have – feel free to Special:EmailUser/Mattgirling email them to me, but I'll reply here. You're welcome to reply here too if you're happy to edit.

All the best, matt (talk) 11:39, 26 December 2011 (UTC)