Wikipedia:The No Asshole Rule

Whenever approaching an AFD or discussion, don't be an asshole! An asshole is defined in Wiktionary as "A jerk; an inappropriately or objectionably mean, inconsiderate, contemptible, obnoxious, intrusive, or rude person". Ring a bell? Consider that other editors have taken the time to write the article or have bothered to start it and that other editors may have a different opinion than you do. If you do not show that you believe the other editors' are acting in good faith then you considerably increase the chances that the individual may result in calling you an "asshole" for your belligerent, inconsiderate approach and refusal to discuss an article or situation amicably.

Calling another editor an asshole, by the wiki "rule book" is considered grossly uncivil and ill-advised, but the The No Asshole Rule may well apply in certain cases where bullying or lack of respect is a threat to productivity or constructive progression. As scholars such as Robert I. Sutton have professed, "There's an emotional reaction to a dirty title. You have a choice between being offensive and being ignored."

The No Asshole Rule is essentially a chain effect of asshole-ness and the chain effect can be prevented if you simply don't be an asshole in the first place and show respect to other editors and treat them as equals. After all: Opinions are like assholes: everybody has one..

A heavy-handed, bureaucratic approach, with wikilawyering and excessive policy-citing from an overbearing, lordly perspective will make the individual more susceptible to being given the a-treatment and is more than likely to result in conflict over civility, and potential blocking. Online communities will act to defend themselves from disruption by jerks. Please help to keep Wikipedia a. Thank you.