Posted by Peter Levey on July 15, 1996 at 01:34:31:
I agree that the 'net is the logical and almost
inevitable arena for conferencing. Due to the con-
venience and anonymity afforded, it can draw comments
from even the quietest of observers. Here lies its
blessing and curse - who decides what is valid? Would
it eventually become self-policing (the 'in' members
concur that individual 'A' is talking rubbish and bar
'A' from further comment) and end up a closed society
with strict access rules (bang go the advantages of the
'net) or would it become a free-for-all were fact and
fiction mingle seamlessly? I don't have the answers.
Possibly, if credible individuals (having won their
fame in the 'real' world) take an active interest and
contribute strongly, the fine line between the two ex-
stremes can be walked and an open 'society' can be
created were real information is freely (or for a
modest fee :) ) available . This conference is, I
believe, a step in that direction. May it go from
strength to strength!