This is double edged sword. These places helped me in my journey but they need to be strongly moderated. There are a lot of creeps that want to exploit people. There are a lot of narcissistic echo chembers. But they also have battle tested techniques and "Know How" that is unprecedented.

Without strong anti-toxic culture and ruthless moderation these places could be a pitfall for someone.

[–] The_v@lemmy.world 3 points 11 months ago

The groups need an established core of well informed and experienced people to work together and shape the culture of the community. The moderation team also needs to be responsive and consistent.

I got pulled into being part of one of those teams years ago. It was a pretty simple formula to make the community healthy: The creeps/spammers got banned and reported. The ignorant got educated in a logical and coherent manner by a team approach. The trolls were played with for a while then banned when they eventually violated a rule.

A good group can save lives and help a lot of people. A bad one can further harm the already damaged and vulnerable. There are many of both groups out there.

[–] Stamets@lemmy.world -5 points 11 months ago

You're really over exaggerating on how much moderation is needed. While it does need a closer eye calling it ruthless is a bit much.