[Am-info] One take on Geoffrey's post...

[Jeff Wasel]

Hi All,

If we stuck to the precise criteria that Jamie had in mind when he set up
the list, then yes, perhaps the list is past its prime. However, I have
always enjoyed the randomness of the threads, the level of discourse, and
the friends I've made here which, at least in my opinion, trumps all that is
"official" about am-info.

Indeed, this list has always been more a reflective forum than one that
perhaps has not proactively tried to change things as other forums,
(although I have taken ideas and thoughts first germinated here back into
the academic realm for further analysis); yet by its very existence this
list has elevated the Microsoft problem above the parapets so that the likes
of Cem Kaner, Wendy Rolm, Declan and others have been able to further the
cause more thoroughly into the media, the law and academia. So I would
respectfully disagree with Geoffrey that this list has had it. It evolves
much as the original question at hand has and will continue to for many more
years; for instance, take a look at what's happening to M$ in Europe...

As for Fred, well, we've beat that one into the ground. If I look at the
stats, it reflects what I have always perceived as the activities of the
"core" of the list, Mitch in particular. Many of Mitch's posts have posed
interesting questions and trenchant observations, particularly in the early
days. As a result, he has been able to expand his online punditry, so good
for him. John U's postings have always reflected the simple outrage of one
who has been directly harmed by the very nature of the behaviour in question
on am-info. This is so critical to the discussion, as it is easy to forget
the human toll in what is essentially an artificial world of bits and bytes.

Geoffrey, you too were a great contributor, and I can understand your
leaving over Fred's activities, but this list is the sum of it's parts, so
to bail without trying to through something into the ring to liven things up
is disappointing.

Anyway, I certainly appreciate the value of am-info, and when Sujal, or
John, or anyone else brings something to the table, it is always of
interest, even if the flow isn't as steady as it once was. Perhaps we can
all think about new contributions to throw into the ring to stimulate the
discussion; but as for letting this list die, that's rubbish...

Cheers,

Jeff


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