Wcase22(a)aol.com wrote:
I was interested in an attachment to one of the recent letters, from the
webmaster, I presume, reminding list members that one should never correct any
information that they deem to be wrong for fear of starting a flame war.
I, for one would be much more upset to know that I had put out incorrect
information than if some kind soul had corrected me. Most all of the
genealogists with whom I associate are of the same opinion. We are supposed to
be grown-ups here and seeking the truth, not self-aggrandizement.
A recent article in the newsletter of the Ohio Genealogical Society deplored
the amount of unsubstantiated, incorrect material on websites and commercially
prepared CD s. Apparently it has become a severe problem and is getting
worse. Too many people have been barking up the wrong family tree.
As an example, I have been researching the Cassel families of PA for a number
of years and have found many myths that have been circulated over and over
again and should be straightened out.
Perhaps it might be a good idea to reconsider this "rule," provided
that any
corrections or questions are presented in a civil manner. I don't want to
cause any problems but I would be interested in knowing how other list members
feel about this matter.
Sincerely,
Mary Cassel Case
Yes, Mary, I agree.
I would much prefer to be corrected than to let an error live forever
because of someone's fear of hurting my feelings. It's all in how it's
done. A courteous "I wonder if you may not have been misinformed"
accompanied by a documented correction, might be well received,
whereas... "How can you be so dumb as to spread such false information?"
could start a 'flame war'.
Let's be courteous and tactful in what we say. Also let's not be
oversensitive to reasonable corrections. It works both ways, you know.
Grace Sweek