Re: Libel/slander (Was: Re: South Creek Nursery Palmyra NY14522)

It is really a sad commentary upon today's culture and civilization
when the sharing of information and opinion among like-minded
individuals on an email list needs to be monitored so closely in fear
of lawsuits, isn't it?

IMnot soHO, one of the marvels of the internet and one of the primary
purposes of email lists is the sharing of information.  I have been
on more lists than I can handle for quite a number of years, during
which I have seen numerous requests for comment about various
businesses and the replies received - both positive and negative.  I
can't think of one instance where a negative comment was made that
was not a result of personal experience that tried the soul of the
poster in one way or another.  I can also not recall an instance
where such negative comments were not challenged by others who might
have had a different opinion or experience...with the exception of
the infamous Michigan Bulb...well, I actually think I remember
someone posting on some list or other that they'd had a positive
experience with them...a lone voice in the wilderness.

Although I am certain that Jeanne posted out of concern for us all -
having knowledge of lawsuits, etc. - and I appreciate her concern, I
would really hate to think that free exchange of opinion needed to be
curtailed because of legal fears.

I think we are all adult enough to exchange opinions and evaluate
them, based upon our knowledge of those who post them.  If any
business discussed on this list feels it has been maligned, the
owners or representatives, should they be subscribed to the list,
have a perfect right to post their own views for consideration and
discussion.  I think we are all fair minded enough to realize that
one negative opinion  is not the last word...at least I hope so.
But, unless we can freely share what we think about topics pertinent
to gardening the list is rather pointless, isn't it?

Marge Talt, zone 7 Maryland
mtalt@clark.net
Editor:  Gardening in Shade
current article: Garden Time
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----------
> From: Gerry/Bob O'Neill <eoneill@IBM.NET>
> Date: Monday, January 10, 2000 8:18 AM
>
> Jeanne, with respect for your knowledge and opinion as a lawyer, to
refrain
> from commenting on the merits/demerits of a particular nursery
denies one
> of the major benefits of the mail list. Admittedly, the information
can be
> exchanged privately, but then only one person benefits from that
information.
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