" I got a warning (or comment) and he didn't"

[Zzyzx]

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It is not uncommon to hear "He did it first" or "I got punished and he didn't" or "I just hit back, I didn't start it" or "What about those other guys" or "They get away with it why can't I" as excuses in school recess altercations. Perhaps they still sound convincing to some adults, but they are not justification for violating Forum Rules and Guidelines.

Most infractions (not in any particular order) relate to:

1. Incivility: If you can't make your argument in a civil manner, don't make it. If others are uncivil, report those posts, do not retaliate and thereby break rules yourself.

2. Personal comments: Debate the issues NOT the characteristics or debating style of others.

3. Personal attack: Restrain your emotions and refrain from negative or derogatory comments.

4. Repeated unsubstantiated claims: If challenged on what you say, provide credible sources to back up your claims, statements and stories.

5. Preaching or Ranting: Avoid using threads for podiums to advertise your beliefs or positions.

6. One-liner posts: Do not clutter threads with comments that contribute nothing to debate. If you wish to simply agree with or complement someone use the MPG donation button available on every post.

7. Commenting on moderator action: Whether you agree or disagree with moderator actions, DO NOT post such things in threads. The ONLY appropriate response if to send a PM to any moderator to to admin.

[Wootah]

[Replying to post 1 by Zzyzx]

Actually saying he did it first is an admission of guilt and could be another ad hominem.