A new year means a new blog design. In January I’ll be upgrading to the latest WordPress version and creating a different look for the blog. I’m partial to a three-column layout so I can run ads and post more information in the sidebar.
The new blog may also be re-tooled. I’m seriously considering doing away with commenting while retaining the trackback feature. I think I’m reaching the limit of tolerance.
Even when commenters are pleasant and agree with me (Yes, I think that’s pleasant, strangely enough.), sometimes flame wars ensue when tempers flare, causing ordinarily reasonable people to act like children. I feel like a mother trying to referee the disputes, then I suddenly remember I don’t have any children.
In other words, it’s becoming too much trouble to deal with. Some bloggers take a hands-off approach, but I like to preserve a certain level of decorum, which means I have to monitor the comments. It’s also taken me awhile to figure out that some commenters don’t actually want to challenge my arguments in a meaningful way. I waste a lot of time responding because I’m compelled to answer even the stupid ones. The solution is not to ignore them but to not allow them in the first place.
To be honest, sometimes I don’t want to hear what somebody else has to say. Blogging takes up a lot of time as it is, and I don’t like spending even more time moderating comments, deleting trolls, etc.
Regular blog readers who don’t have their own blogs can’t appreciate the time that goes into dealing with comments. Bloggers who don’t get a lot of traffic or commenters can’t appreciate it, either.
One reason I allow commenting is to encourage visits, but bloggers like Ann Althouse have no comment or trackback features enabled and still get a decent amount of traffic. Another reason is to encourage feedback, but people can always e-mail me, although my incoming e-mail would probably quadruple. If I decide not to enable the feature after the redesign, all previous comments will remain.
It’s sort of ironic that I’m soliciting your opinion on whether I should enable commenting on my new blog, but I ask: What are the pros and cons of a comment-enabled blog? Would you be discouraged from visiting if you couldn’t comment publicly or interact with commenters?
High-profile bloggers with trackback only:
High-profile bloggers with no commenting or trackbacks:
I only occassionally read the comments to your posts. The primary reason for coming to your blog is to see what you have to say.
Comment by Fr. John Whiteford — 12.15.04 @ 8:15 am
I can’t say I’ve ever gone out of my way to read the comments to your posts. I do appreciate the comments feature, primarily as a means to make a quick comment to you when I read something of interest.
I have a policy on my blog of not getting into a point/counterpoint discussion in the comments. Readers are free to leave comments if they like, but I don’t respond to arguments. Some people just want to be contrarian trolls, while others post beneficial comments. I take the good with the bad.
Comment by Lockjaw the Ogre — 12.15.04 @ 8:28 am
“Seek peace and pursue it”
There are times I’ll read something and wish I had an opportunity to make a comment [like learning that Mary Tyler Moore is defending a man who threatened a child because the child’s parents moved a bird’s nest off his apartment building– but I can’t reach Mary Tyler Moore and you know what? life goes on.]
If the blog becomes a burden then something’s not right. So I would recommend doing that thing which gives you the most joy & peace….and btw — Merry Christmas
Comment by difrench — 12.15.04 @ 8:33 am
LaShawn, I too have only commented occasionally, and that was before the volume of your comments got to be so huge that I couldn’t read all of them. I figured if I couldn’t read them, I didn’t want to add to them!
I come hear to read what you write, and I’ll keep reading regardless of whether you have a comments feature.
I’ll probably keep sending you the occasional email, too! Blessings.
Comment by Katy Raymond — 12.15.04 @ 8:36 am
Of course, I meant to write “I come HERE.” Before coffee, homonyms are particularly troubling for me!
Comment by Katy Raymond — 12.15.04 @ 8:38 am
I read your blog daily & comment every once in a while. I do read other reader’s comments alot of the time. I enjoy them (both good & bad). I like seeing multiple perspectives on a issue.
Comment by Thunder Runner — 12.15.04 @ 8:39 am
Whatever makes you happy, and fits with your schedule, but I do enjoy reading the comments, and learn lots about people from their reactions and responses to you. As they say, “it takes all kinds”.
Comment by DagneyT — 12.15.04 @ 8:43 am
As others have already said, I visit to read what you have to say. Your beliefs and your comments are well reasoned, bold, consistent and unwavering.
Options:
1. Permit no comments.
2. Allow comments only on topics that you want feedback or analysis by others.
3. Limit the number of comments.
4. Require registration with a valid email address and any other information that you believe is necessary.
5. Once registered, block anyone who is not constructive in their remarks.
Comment by Ralph — 12.15.04 @ 9:00 am
#1 -I would still come here, even if I couldn’t comment. I would be one of those people who would email you from time to time. The sites I go to most often are Instapundit, Powerline, The Corner, and Wizbang - only Wizbang has commenting.
Frequency of visits for me are tied to frequency of posting, and how interesting I find the sites, not whether I can comment.
#2 - I rarely follow trackbacks, and they can cause trouble. I’ve been thinking of setting up a special interest blog (as opposed to my livejournal) and there would be no comments or trackbacks, but definitely an email to contact me. If I thought someone made a good point in an email, or did their own post on mine that I thought was interesting, I would attach it to my original post, like Glenn Reynolds does. Though I do not follow trackbacks, I will often visit links in Updates on blogs.
Comment by meep — 12.15.04 @ 9:05 am
You definitely need trackbacks, even if only on a partial basis (not unlike Michelle). They become a defacto commentary in and of themselves, but limit it (to a degree) to other bloggers.
Some might call this an elitist tact, but it is one that would certainly limit the number of morons gumming up the works for you; plus you wouldn’t have to worry so much about moderating. Trackback posts tend to be far more self-policing.
I don’t get anywhere near the number of comments on my posts that you do, and can live with the occasional moonbat (though the easiest thing for me to do is to hit the “delete” button). Plus I’m on several times a day (thanks to the work I’m doing), and are more likely to get to a rogue post before it becomes problematic.
Comment by Michael — 12.15.04 @ 9:08 am
I normally stop by to see what you have to say. I don’t read the comments unless it’s a post like this where you have asked for feedback. I think Ralph has the right idea in his comment about laying the ground rules for when you might want comments. I don’t see enough traffic for comments to be the type of problem that you have. If managing the comments has been this much of a burden you’re better off not allowing them. I don’t think your traffic will suffer if you don’t allow comments. By the way, I regularly read the blogs that you mentioned that don’t allow commenters and it doesn’t bother me one bit that they don’t want me to post comments. If I have something I really want to say to them I can always e-mail them.
Comment by Daddypundit — 12.15.04 @ 9:17 am
La Shawn,
I would come here even if I coudn’t comment, because I like what you have to say on the many topics you blog about. However, it is one of the features that I love about your blog. Up until even a couple of months ago, there were just a few regular commentors ( that you didn’t block), and it got so we were like a little community. Now your comment traffic is so heavy that I can never read all of it, and I am often discouraged from commenting for being lost in the crowd. Of course, all this comment traffic is indicative of how popular your blog has become.
I say do whatever you feel is best for you. Your loyal readers will still be around. I hope though that it won’t cause your email to flood, as I enjoy the occassional direct exchange with you that being able to email you provides, and I’d hate to get lost in the crowd there too.
Comment by Montie — 12.15.04 @ 9:27 am
Dear La Shawn,
If monitoring the comments is becoming a burden, then you shouldn’t feel any scruples about not allowing them any more.
I will say that I’ve enjoyed being able to comment and engage with other commenters (esp. people like Andy and SCSIwuzzy). There are so few forums in which people can discuss controversial matters frankly. In providing such a forum, you’ve done a real service.
That said, I repeat what others have said: the comments aren’t essential to the quality of your blog.
Whatever you decide, thanks for what you’ve been doing.
Adrian
Comment by adrian — 12.15.04 @ 9:29 am
I could live w/out them here. If you think someone’s perspective is noteworthy (whether it be in another blog or in an emailed comment), you’ll post it. I do like the idea of enabling comments only on some posts, if that’s a possibility.
Comment by LawWife — 12.15.04 @ 9:29 am
LaShawn, I suspect we shall survive if you take comments away. I comment simply because I can. If you take it away, I won’t comment because I no longer can. No worries. I’ll still read. If people don’t like it, they can start their own blog and see for themselves what it takes.
Comment by Bucktowndusty — 12.15.04 @ 9:33 am
I agree that comments may be more trouble than they are worth. My blog has them, but they can be a pain even with the little traffic I get. A few jerks ruin it for the rest of us, etc, etc. Plus even if they were all nice, I would feel compelled to read and reply to them and that takes time too.
On the other hand I think some form of public feedback is necessary for a blog, especially an ideological one. I’m more than willing to admit I may be wrong about something and I would like there to be ready-made checks and balances upon me. I think trackback can do that with a fairly good signal to noise ratio.
The other thing is that the left side of the blogosphere seems to be growing faster than the right. A major reason may be that few rightwing blogs seem to use either comments or trackbacks to lead to new or more developing blogs. I think part of the reason for this is that the left trolls more often than the right, but its having an impact on the left-right divide.
Comment by Jeff the Baptist — 12.15.04 @ 9:35 am
Lashawn,
I enjoy the comments because often you will get links to additional information, and occasionally you’ll get an idea for an update or entry or two. I never thought anyone was particularly out of control, but then again I don’t see what you filter. But the diversity of ideas among the neo, social, economic- cons is refreshing. Although, the market dictates that you offer your product in the way you see fit. A loss of the comments, though would be a loss nonetheless. I am sorry that your readers (us) have disappointed you so.
Comment by stephen johnson — 12.15.04 @ 9:38 am
I like the comments and I read them. The same for trackbacks. Most of the comments I have seen are thoughtful exchanges. Perhaps that is because you have deleted the others.
I like seeing what others have to say on an issue. Trackbacks also help to generate traffic for other sites and represent a kind of “giving back” to the blogosphere.
Comment by Jeff Blogworthy — 12.15.04 @ 9:48 am
I would echo Ralph’s suggestions as to how to control your time due to quality and volume of comments La Shawn. I would add another alternative before stopping comments altogether, require Subscription to your site for comment privileges, then you would filter out most all but the most serious commenter.
I personally enjoy reading others reactions to your posts and your reactions to them, including some of my own. Very few blogs get comment reactions from the blogger themselves, a popular feature of your blog for me.
Regardless of your choice La Shawn, may I suggest a motto for the new La Shawn Barber’s Corner:
“So many Liberals, So little Time”.
Comment by Jim R — 12.15.04 @ 9:48 am
LaShawn,
Like the others, I come to read you, not the comments. Though I do linger as a result of them. It is your time, your money, and your blog, so whatever works for you is the solution. I’d miss some of the comments and commentors, but I know I’d probably be doing more blogging of my own if you and other blogs were to shut down their discussion boards
In that light, however, I would see track backs as a keeper, being smaller in number and easier to deal with. While a troll or two may change names and IP adresses to sneak back, not many people would go to the trouble to create a bogus blog just to annoy/harras people.
Still, it all comes down to your time, your money, your blog. If the free ice cream stand has attracted too many loitering bums, time to take the tables and chairs away
Comment by SCSIwuzzy — 12.15.04 @ 9:55 am
Hi, La Shawn,
In the case of your page, I mostly read just for what you have written. On other pages, where commentators often have valuable input, I will specifically look for the comments. I think it depends on the focus of your blog–you are writing your definite opinion about a topic, not soliciting a discussion about the issue.
Trackbacks would be nice, as they are a thrill to the new blogger who mentions another blogger, and then may have a chance to get his blog read because of that.
Comment by Misty — 12.15.04 @ 9:57 am
I especially enjoy the comments on your blog. You have a diverse group of readers, and to tell the truth, they draw me here as much as you do. Without hearing from the readership you have managed to attract, you would become another one of my favored news-opinion blogs instead of what I feel distinguishes you from other blogs.
Don’t get me wrong, I love your unique take on things and would always drift through to read your opinions, but it is the synergy of you and your readers that really grab my attention.
One must do what one must do, however, and if you decide not to publically interact with your readership in such a manner I will still read what you have to say.
But I will miss it.
Comment by Michael E. Cummins — 12.15.04 @ 10:01 am
Like others have already said, I come here to read what you have to say, and rarely bother with the comments unless I’m planning to comment myself (which isn’t often). I think the trackback only option (like Michelle Malkin’s, who I also read) would work fine for you… those who don’t have a blog to use as a soapbox for commenting on your post could just e-mail you anyway.
Comment by songstress7 — 12.15.04 @ 10:11 am
Hi, La Shawn!
As you know, I rarely have comments or trackback on my blog. If I could figure out how to have trackbacks only, that would be the option that I would choose.
Honestly, I don’t know how you and other bloggers that have comments available for every post put up with some of the (uh oh. I had better watch my language here.) er, with some of the negative and nonsensical attacks that you receive.
If you were to go to a format with no comments or only comments on rare occassions, I think you would feel a weight lifted from your shoulders. I mean, why should your blog be a source of stress because some morons choose to use it as the forum or the means to tear you down while trying to build up themselves?
On the rare occassion when I open comments, it’s either because I asked a question and I want some answers or feedback (such as you did in this comments thread) or it’s because the post is so silly or uncontroversial (like letting people know about a condensed 30 second animated bunny version of famous films. Lol!). Who’s going to argue with that?
I guess what I’m trying to say is handle your blog the way you want to handle it, but I wouldn’t tolerate the “forces of darkness” (as I call them) using my blog for their RETORTS. A retort is not a response. Besides, people have probably already noted that anyone like me who is arrogant enough to have “you’ve been told” for his URL and “Now You Know” for his blog title isn’t really asking for their opinions. Lol!
The secular myth that Christians should just be doormats and patiently take whatever nonsense is hurled at them is simply that; a MYTH. You have such a beautiful light to shine, La Shawn. Don’t cast your pearls before the swine that would trample them under foot.
Thank you very much for asking for my in-put. Speaking of pearls, you’re one of great price.
Comment by Frank Villon — 12.15.04 @ 10:46 am
Although I enjoy commenting and reading the comments from others, I totally understand losing patience with all of “us” (I mean we do act like the 3 Stooges sometimes and I don’t blame you for wanted to line us all up and giving one long slap
)
Either way, I come here for your great write-ups anyway.
Comment by Renee — 12.15.04 @ 10:54 am
Thanks for the feedback, everybody.
I’m not pointing fingers at anyone in particular or my regular commenters necessarily, but some people like to comment simply because the comments are public, and they think they can say whatever they want about me and my posts. I’m fed up with the personal attacks. If people want to say nasty things via e-mail, fine. But I have a feeling what they’re really after is an opportunity to “tell me off” on my own blog.
I’m not having it. I’m just funny that way.
Before I make a decision, I’ll consider all suggestions.
Comment by La Shawn — 12.15.04 @ 10:58 am
I visit every day. I always will. I’ve never commented ’til now. I’ve never looked at the comments ’til now. I only did this because you asked… and you rock. Thanks.
Squig
Comment by Squiggy J — 12.15.04 @ 11:07 am
It would be a shame to see an end to your comments LaShawn.
Comment by David Earney — 12.15.04 @ 11:50 am
Keep the comments La Shawn but you should simply ignore them when overwhelming (a la LGF, Polipundit, Allah in the House, etc.). They give folks an opportunity to link up with others who maintain similar thoughts and beliefs which is crucial to the maintenance and growth of the blogosphere.
For instance, I track a handful of very good blogs discovered on your comment board. From those blogs I almost always find my way to other great articles and content.
Comment by Dan Cummings — 12.15.04 @ 11:59 am
I like the thought of a blog with comments and with most blogs I read I will look through and/or make comments. Yet I’ll admit I read your blog and rarely read the comments and this is the first time that I have made a comment.
But hey, I agree with some of the comments that say you should do whatever makes you happy. Its your blog and I’ll still read it no matter what.
Comment by Dan — 12.15.04 @ 12:07 pm
Catching my eye: morning A through Z
Here’s what caught my eye this morning: The Big Picture evalutes the success of the RIAA. Scroll around on this blog. He’s got a lot of great stuff. Somebody’s finally noticing the dog in the manger. Kevin Drum of Washington…
Trackback by The Glittering Eye — 12.15.04 @ 12:24 pm
I’m on the fence. I read Michelle Malkin’s site as well as 20 others on the days that I can and I haven’t missed the comments on her site that much.
The others I go see:
Everything I Know is Wrong
Who Moved my Truth
Polipundit
Instapundit
Powerline
BETSY’s PAGE - personal favorite as well as La Shawn’s
Little Green Footballs
Politopics
DC Thornton
My personal wish is that people would just not tar and feather others including you La Shawn in the comments section. Trying people in the court of public opinion seems to be a favorite past time of many and is one of my personal pet peeves. I wish for the debate to center around ideas and substance and I end up spending an inordinate amount of time trying to refocus the debate.
It is your site La Shawn and I love you and your brain and remember it is your decision. You have priorities in life I’m sure that are much higher than reading each and every poster’s comments to see if they cross a line. I have wondered how you have kept up with it.
IDEA:
Maybe you can have a handful of 50-100 or even up to 300 posters that you TRUST be allowed to post and then they would kind of be like guest writers (posters). They can cover a spectrum. Then you wouldn’t have to read all of our comments. We would let you know if someone was out of line so that priveledges could be revoked.
Comment by Baklava — 12.15.04 @ 12:32 pm
Geez LaShawn it’s so very simple. Turn a negative into a
positive. Charge say, 10 bucks a year and with those
dues come the right to comment. And if you don’t want to
be capitalistic … well dear just DONATE THE PROCEEDS
TO CHARITY. C’mon does it take an atheist to think of
that? SURELY the Bible says something about such as this.
Comment by Steel Turman — 12.15.04 @ 12:42 pm
If they want to respond to what you have written, let them blog about it.
Comment by Keith Harris — 12.15.04 @ 12:47 pm
I say off with their heads!
…Or more tactfully put, I think you’ll be fine if you do away with comments.
I agree, it can be burdensome. For me it’s the mixture of the comments and the SPAM that causes stress beyond measure.
As a reader here, honestly, I rarely sift through the comments. I just don’t have the time.
There are a few other options you haven’t considered like closing commenting on posts in 24 hours. Or only enabling comments on certain posts. There are a good number of bloggers that do this as well.
Ultimately, I think you’re after peace of mind, so don’t feel like taking away commenting will diminish visits.
Comment by Ambra Nykol — 12.15.04 @ 12:48 pm
Hey, La Shawn,
This is my first time commenting. I read your blog for your unique perspective on issues. I would still visit sans comments.
As I believe an underlying goal of your blog is to glorify God, I encourage you to seek Him and flow with the witness He gives you regarding the comments. Don’t worry about the haters. Hopefully they’ll see the Light soon.
I’m looking forward to the changes.
Have a blessed Christmas and New Year celebration!
Comment by Sam — 12.15.04 @ 12:49 pm
Mmmm.
Two things come to mind: Some blogs allow comments but require registration, but I imagine that is just another headache, maybe smaller, maybe not.
Secondly, Renee said: “I mean we do act like the 3 Stooges sometimes…” and this is why Moe is always angry
Comment by SCSIwuzzy — 12.15.04 @ 12:51 pm
Hmm…I come here to read what you have to say.
Though I rarely read the comments and the Ann Coulter threads are a riot,I can see how you could be frustrated if you try to babysit each one.
I like the trackback feature and think you should keep it. It’s a convenient tool for other bloggers and it drives traffic to your site.
You can always try different variations until you hit one that’s right for you.
We’re flexible.
Comment by Janette — 12.15.04 @ 12:55 pm
LaShawn, I love reading your blog and would do so whether or not you had Comments and/or Trackback features. I say do whatever you want to do.
We will still love ya!
Comment by Janna — 12.15.04 @ 12:58 pm
I often read comments, unless you get A LOT of them, like on this post. I don’t like to leave e-mail addresses though, mostly because of spam bots.
Comment by Michael — 12.15.04 @ 1:15 pm
Sometimes it can be satisfying to allow people to reveal their true nature by their own words.
Haters always reflect worse on themselves than you.
Having said that, it does take a lot of time to wade through comments and formulate intelligent responses. If it is becoming that troublesome, consider taking a comment sabbatical for a month or so and see how it goes. If you miss hearing from folks, perhaps you can re-enable them later. Just my $0.02
Those who really want to read what you have to say won’t be affected too much. Good luck with the renovations!
cheers,
Feeble
Comment by Feeble Knees — 12.15.04 @ 1:44 pm
narrow the topics down that you want comments on. But don’t do away completely with that feature. Where you find love return it and where you find hate ignore and delete it.
Comment by Eric — 12.15.04 @ 1:50 pm
I enjoy the comments as much as I enjoy the posts actually and I have found other blogs via the trackbacks as well but it is your site and your dollar and I respect that immensely.
You have the right not to be attacked in your own house. And I would still read you, with my stradding the fence self.
Do you, and we’ll all fall in line!
Comment by Tiffany in Minneapolis — 12.15.04 @ 2:11 pm
That will be unfortunate if you do away with comments. It’s nice to be able to discuss your posts. Maybe your emails will increase as a result.
Comment by mj — 12.15.04 @ 2:30 pm
During the Rathrgate controversy, the point was made repeatedly that Rather was brought down not merely by bloggers but by their readers, people whose expertise allowed them collectively to expose the fabricated memos. A further point was frequently made: that although bloggers didn’t have editors, the feedback from their readers allowed them to correct mistakes immediately and generally kept them on their toes. Your the second or third blogger I’ve seen mention the possibility of cutting off comments, something you have the right to do, of course, but I wonder if you could find time to explain to those of us who bought into the arguments I’ve noted above why we were wrong to do so.
Comment by Kenneth Burke — 12.15.04 @ 3:22 pm
I’m pretty much going to repeat what others have already said, but I rarely read the comments and I think I have only left a comment maybe once or twice. Regardless, I read your site every day because I enjoy reading what you say and will continue to do so whether you allow comments are not.
Comment by DragonLady — 12.15.04 @ 3:38 pm
LaShawn -
It looks like I’m in the minority here, but I think comments should stay. To me, it’s a question of how the political debate should be structured. Should we banish opposition? Should we let the proprieters of each medium be unchallenged in their views?
Obviously, you ending comments is barely a blip on the radar screen of free speech. However, I think there’s something very American and conservative about allowing individuals to have and express opinions totally at odds with one’s own. I have to admit I would lose respect for you as a blogger if you were unwilling to stand up to the bracing gale of public reaction to what you post.
Blogs are, in a way, a “comments” section on the mass media. Some in the mass media have responded by saying blogs are stupid and irrelevant. For us bloggers to retain our dignity as critics of the Establishment, we need to avoid becoming an insulated establishment of our own.
Comment by Salim — 12.15.04 @ 3:51 pm
I enjoy seeing the comments by your readers, and occasionally adding to them myself.
I realize, however, that you must do whatever is best for you.
Comment by Rick Bridgeman — 12.15.04 @ 3:55 pm
The great thing about having your own blog is that it is yours. I started reading here to read YOU, because you are interesting and insightful, without being inciteful.
Whatever changes you decide on, be bold and follow your intuition and best judgement. When in doubt, follow your intuition. It is most likely what God is trying to guide you towards.
Merry Christmas, and Blessings for the New Year for you and your family.
Regards,
Comment by ebnelson — 12.15.04 @ 4:50 pm
I would definitely continue reading your blog if you discontinued comments. I’m interested in YOUR beliefs and point of view. Serious discussions and/or debates are nearly impossible given the linear nature of the comment stream, especially as the number of entries increases with your popularity. I also appreciate how time consuming it is to post thought-provoking articles with any intellectual depth. You’re right that your limited time shouldn’t be spent (wasted) managing commenters. I doubt if you chose to blog because you wanted to be a discussion moderator!
LGF and PowerLine are two blogs that I visit daily (after yours of course). At first, I wished that PL allowed commenting. But then I realized that when the unmoderated LGF blog often ran to over 100 comments, it was impossible to read them all. Discussions quickly become disconnected when interspersed with so many inane, distracting comments.
In sum, the “brand” of your blog is YOU. Let’s have more of you and a happy you!
btw: Although I find your writing to be very informative and intellectually stimulating, it is also a joy to read!
Comment by Curt — 12.15.04 @ 4:53 pm
1. I don’t read trackbacks. Simply of no interest.
The only REALLY regular blog I read without the ability to comment is The Corner.
Even Michelle Malkin I don’t visit often. Don’t know if this is because of the lack of comments or other reasons.
I DO know I used to have a livejournal blog. After a particularly nasty set of comments, I pretty much stopped blogging entirely. Because I can’t see having a blog without that ability. And I can’t see my way fit to deleting comments. And I can’t handle the emotional turmoil of the comments. So I do understand where you are coming from
(And I was never as popular as you)
OTOH… I do like commenting sometimes. So.. Dunno.
Do what you need to do for yourself.
Comment by Sarah Schreffler — 12.15.04 @ 5:10 pm
There is another way…
Perhaps you could have a trusted moderator who monitors the comments and keeps them from getting out of hand. Then it could be hands-off for you, except when you feel like it. Just a thought.
I personally like seeing direct feedback from readers. Sometimes it gives me ideas for other posts. Aren’t comments oftentimes like brainstorming? They can be a good thing.
As far as the flaming, Ann Coulter said that if she is not making Leftists mad with rage, she feels like she is not doing her job. Seeing them get angry lets her know she is hitting the mark. That is one way to at it. Wear the attacks as a badge of honor.
Comment by Jeff Blogworthy — 12.15.04 @ 5:55 pm
Keep comments.
I like typepad registration (like Roger L. Simon).
I read you MORE because I could comment, if I choose to.
But as the number increases, my additions get fewer.
I also like the idea of $10 to join the commenters. Though I suggest you allow some “positive references” or something else, so free folk (I no play if I must pay) like me have a chance to continue.
I was thinking you might ask your “Barber’s Club” (Corner Club?) regulars to include a reference to at least one of your blog posts; needing at least 1 to get provisional commenting rights; at least 3 to become a full member.
In case you turn comments off, understandable (YOUR choice):
Merry Christmas, may God Bless You. (I like Captain’s Q — but voted for you every day.)
Comment by Tom Grey - Liberty Dad — 12.15.04 @ 6:34 pm
If you weren’t so popular, you wouldn’t have all those problems!
Comment by Mike — 12.15.04 @ 6:58 pm
Lashawn: you can do without comments. I come to your site to see what you’ve got to say, not what the comments are.
Look at it this way: with no comments to review, you’ll be able to write more. And we’ll be able to read more of YOUR stuff, not some commenter’s stuff.
Comment by orest — 12.15.04 @ 7:19 pm
I think you probably do have more important things to do with your time than monitor the comments. I enjoy them, but I read your blog for what YOU write. Do what you feel is right! I’ll be here, reading your stuff, come what may.
Just know that you have many, many people who love you and care about your work, and don’t get discouraged, because it is very important. And so are you. Thanks for everything!
Comment by Peggy Snow Cahill — 12.15.04 @ 8:17 pm
If it’s for your sanity, cut it off.
You can limit who comments or the time the commenting is allowed.
Comment by DarkStar — 12.15.04 @ 8:28 pm
Keep the comments. Keep the comments. Keep the comments.
With comments, one no longer needs to be politically connected or to live in a city to be a part of the “discourse”.
Would Powerline and Little Green Footballs have exposed Rathergate without comments? - May be - but it was the interaction of thousands of viewers/participants that gave weight to and fleshed out the story.
I’m interested in and respect your opinion, but it is through the comments that I flesh out my own views, increase my understanding of other’s views, and get a chance to influence the views of others.
I have seen editorials in major online and print publications that almost exactly match the concensus of opinion fleshed out in the comments of major blogs. The editorials come AFTER the blog. We are creating and shaping the news, as it should be!
I can’t write well enough to create opening opinions to a discussion as you do. But I can write well enough to participate in the comments discussion; I find the comments empowering.
Thank you for a great blog!
Comment by josh — 12.15.04 @ 9:04 pm
It IS your blog so you must do whatever works best for you. Sometimes the comments are interesting and others are not.
Have a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year.
Comment by Pat in NC — 12.15.04 @ 9:08 pm
Maybe the only way to allow comments with a website this popular is to be hands off, like you said. However, even that can take up all your time, and who has that much of it to spend on the computer anyway? I’m pretty ambivalent either way.
Comment by RepJ — 12.15.04 @ 9:38 pm
Girl,
I’m reading your blog if I have to do it bound and gagged and hanging upside-down from a telephone pole.
Don’t worry about the comments. You’ll be ok either way.
Comment by Beverley Eyre — 12.15.04 @ 9:47 pm
Saw Eddie Murphy’s Coming to America the other day and the barbershop scenes reminded me of your blog. Once upon a time, the locals would congregate at ye olde barber shop daily just to shoot the breeze, catch up on local politics etc. That’s the atmosphere you’ve created.
For me, whether commenting enhances a blog depends a lot on tone and relevancy. Some daily blogs like Captain’s Quarters, I don’t read comments too often because he’s said pretty much all there is to say about a news event. Others like Baldilocks’ or Nykola are a weekly fix, where I’ll read all of the comments but rarely have anything to say.
However, I must confess that here on the corner, a day without reading AND commenting is like missing out on my daily coffee and having a word or two with friends. Oh well, you gotta do what works for you.
Comment by Andy — 12.15.04 @ 10:33 pm
Personally, I prefer reading blogs that don’t permit commenting because often, too often, the comments descend to the level of the lowest common denominator. The result is almost bad. With comment moderation it’s obviously better reading, but terribly time consuming for the blogger.
I whole-heartedly agree with your decision (is it made yet?) to discontinue comments.
I’m sure with email responses to your articles you’ve enough comments to wade through anyway.
Comment by Allan — 12.15.04 @ 11:15 pm
New Daily Read
I loved David Limbaugh’s Book Persecution: How Liberals Are Waging War Against Christianity. If you have any doubts whether or not there is persecution in America, read his book and see for yourself just how bad it’s become. I found…
Trackback by Radio Brian Scott — 12.16.04 @ 12:02 am
I’m inclined to agree with you on comments - the horror of moderating them is one of the big reasons I’ve never tried any sort of blog of my own.
In general, I don’t think the comments are really very useful, mostly because AFAIK, no blog system out there makes it easy enough to do any sort of meaningful moderation. (One thing’s pretty certain in today’s world: If you’re going to have comments at all, they have to be moderated to keep people from poisoning the well, and that’s a bunch of work.)
My key thought on blog comments: If they are allowed, they should be short, on-topic, and ONLY allowed to be in response to your top-level post. Things really go off the rails when the commenters begin commenting on other comments - almost no one wants to read that. Sadly, I know of no good way to enforce this sort of comment moderation short of having the blogger read and approve each comment before it shows up. And of course, you would need to show a great deal of restraint in letting only the very best 1% or so of comments through: the comments that point out another way of looking at things, or make you think, ponder, pray, or laugh out loud. This sort of reform, if it can be balanced, would make comments really valuable - otherwise, kill’em and few will miss them. (BTW, if you keep them, then a cookie or CSS toggle to view them inline with the posts would be a good idea for those that want to see the newly valuable comments…)
Comment by Dub Dublin — 12.16.04 @ 1:14 am
By the way, Doug Wilson’s Blog and Mablog (dougwils.com) and George Grant’s King’s Meadow Blog (kingsmeadow.com) are two GREAT examples of blogs that do quite well without comments, thank you. (They’re also two of the top Reformed thinkers and writers on the web today, too…)
Comment by Dub Dublin — 12.16.04 @ 1:19 am
I only have a little bit of time that I can spend on reading blogs and online news (usually, like now, a little bit of time after everyone else has gone to bed.) And, that time will soon become less with the birth of our 2nd child. Right now, I read fox news, townhall, and a few blogs that allow comments. I enjoy the interaction and the intellectual stimulation from reading different points of view.
I’d still read your blog occasionally if you took away the comments because I like to read other Christians’ perspectives on the news and politics, but I would read it less often without the comments. Registration seems to work well for some of the other blogs.
However, your time is limited too, and I’m not sure what kind of a time drain that would be.
Comment by Elizabeth B — 12.16.04 @ 1:22 am
Maybe you could interview volunteers to be moderators. I haven’t been around long, but I’m sure there are some regulars whose judgement you trust. Hopefully some people have time to help if you decide that’s an option.
PurpleMD
…lone Black conservative Christian female physician in the San Francisco Bay Area
Comment by PurpleMD — 12.16.04 @ 1:23 am
Thursday Link Roundup
LaShawn Barber asks, should bloggers allow comments, or not?
Sean Kinsell recently discovered that amongst his group of friends, he
Trackback by Dean's World — 12.16.04 @ 1:59 am
If comment traffic gets too heavy, go to comment registration. It’s the best of both worlds, really. Only people who genuinely care will bother with registering, and if they get obnoxious you can cut them off easily.
Comment by Dean Esmay — 12.16.04 @ 3:10 am
Well, it’s like they say over at aintitcool.com: the only way to describe a comments board is to compare it to two rabid ferrets fighting in a sack. Screw the comments board. Everyone comes to your site for what you say, not what everyone else says.
Comment by Esteban — 12.16.04 @ 6:02 am
I almost never add comments myself, but very much enjoy reading the input of those who do.
I don’t think that I’m unique in that I tend to almost exclusively read those blogs that share my religious, philosophical, or political viewpoint. The comments section can keep me honest though in making me think of ideas from sometimes very different perspectives.
Having said that; it is your blog. And I’m certain that with God’s guidance you will make the proper decision.
God Bless and have a very Merry Christmas!
Comment by Dave — 12.16.04 @ 6:51 am
I enjoy reading your articles and would continue reading them whether you continue with the comments or not. I would suggest doing what is best for you, since it’s your blog!!
Comment by Jim — 12.16.04 @ 7:08 am
La Shawn,
The only time I go to the comments is if you explicitly ask for comments. It’s your comments that I come to read. If turning off comments gives you more time to write and think then I say turn off the comments!
Comment by Rick Owen — 12.16.04 @ 7:49 am
LaShawn,
Do what’s best for you. If you keep comments, suggest you limit their size. Some comments are the length of “war and peace.” I’ll read your blog either way. You’re annointed. God bless.
Comment by Dave in AZ — 12.16.04 @ 9:22 am
I have often thought that it must be a very time consuming job to run a blog even without comments and having comments and monitering them would obviously be lot more work. I do enjoy the comments and read them for any article that interests me. I admire you for all the work you do in producing this blog, which I think has great value, and you have my sympathy for dealing with people who don’t know how to act. I will continue to read your blog comments or no.
Comment by Mike O — 12.16.04 @ 10:57 am
Are you going to stop blogging until you make a decision? I shall be sad if you do that.
Comment by LawWife — 12.16.04 @ 11:06 am
I’ll read your blog anyway. I’ve recently chosen to avoid commenting because of the sheer number you get, and it gets to be too time consuming to debate others on your blog while having to go through so many…although it is fun to leave my “two cents”.
I’m surprised you were able to keep up with all the work to this point!
Comment by Tom Blogical — 12.16.04 @ 11:09 am
Someone with a lot of energy could create a discussion forum with different blog names as headings such as Powerline, La Shawn Barber’s Corner, add your favorite here. Under each heading would be topics that are specific only as they relate to each blog. In other words, La Shawn’s topics would be listed for discussion. Someone would not be able to create a topic such as “La Shawn is a very whatever kind of person”.
Basically, the bloggers blog in peace, the commenters can slug it out within the discussion forum.
The discussion forum could be either supported/linked by the individual blogger or not. Official (with bessings) vs Unofficial.
Comment by Ralph — 12.16.04 @ 12:08 pm
For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God (Col 1:9-10).
Would I be discouraged to visit if I was unable to read comments & post on your blog: No, but the visit would be different (not as entertaining, for one) for a neophyte conservative christian such as myself. I enjoy debates.
Comment by ZIPLA — 12.16.04 @ 2:38 pm
Have you ever seen Slashdot? (slashdot.org) It’s a site for geeks. The primary feature of the site IS the comments. However they have a moderation system that is set up so that the “veterans” of the site moderate the comments. Readers can set their viewing preferences to filter out the chaff from the wheat. The trolls are quickly moderated down and very few people ever see their comments.
The engine behind it all is called “slash”, and it is open source and free to use. You have to come up with a server though. O’Reilly even has a book about it!
Comment by Jim Stegman — 12.16.04 @ 4:29 pm
I can’t remember if I’ve ever commented on your weblog. I’ve been reading it for months now, though, and I’ve enjoyed a couple of email exchanges with you.
As a reader, I like the comment function, even though I rarely check out the comments of any particular post, because it’s an easy way to give the writer instant feedback if I feel so inclined; much easier than opening an email.
I’m for keeping the comment function–you can always delete any comment you don’t like just as you delete any trackback you don’t like. It’s your blog, and you can delete what you want to. ;^)
Comment by Lornkanaga — 12.16.04 @ 4:31 pm
I think the comment feature of your blog is nice, because for many of us, including this stay at home mom, need a creative outlet. Meaning….that sometimes, it is just nice to be able to air how I might think on a subject. I do enjoy reading what others have to say also.
Comment by Rose — 12.16.04 @ 4:51 pm
My two cents:
Comments are grossly de-legitimizing in my eyes. I cannot count the number of times I have followed a trackback to a new blog and dismissed it out of hand because of the comment thread. Why? Because if they are not painfully vitriolic they are frighteningly groupthink. Flame wars and flattery fairs. They are rarely a forum for actual discussion because they are rarely a -forum- at all. Can you quote? Can you edit or delete your posts? Is there the accountability - and flame-retarant - of a login? No, none of these things.
If you value the intelligent comments of your regular readers and wish to have discussion on your site, co-host a genuine discussion forum. These programs are designed to facilitate communication in a way that blog-commenting simply cannot. Link to the forum in your posts if you like, and maybe edit the post to include notable quotes, but do not dilute your own message with the endless addendums of strangers.
Comment by Vicky — 12.16.04 @ 5:34 pm
La Shawn, I enjoy reading your blog and the comments and enjoy commenting. However, Jesus promised that the burden he gives is light. If the burden is heavy, that isn’t the one from our Lord. Another thing to consider, because you have such a good blog, the traffic and comments will surely increase. If a paid registration for commenters was required, I would be in favor of that. It would help screen out the “hit and run” trolls. Please keep the lovely photo that greets us every time we log on. Evon
Comment by Evon Bachaus — 12.16.04 @ 5:57 pm
I read your blog for your opinion…not others. Do what you what you feel is best for you and what you have time for. Good luck!
Comment by Laurie Pevey — 12.17.04 @ 1:04 am
LaShawn-
Wow! An already excellent blogsite owned by a very classy lady will soon be redesigned and become even better next year. In time, I hope, for next year’s Wizbang best blog awards, when you can become a serious contender in at least 2 categories.
Please retain the comments feature, as most other posters have advocated; just don’t bother to react to the crazies. It’s easier for your loyal readers to skip past them and get to the majority of them which have real substance. You need to take the time to smell the roses–and at this great time of the year, the wonderful scents of the Christmas season.
Merry Christmas to you and yours and prayers to all our brave military forces wherever they are serving a great cause.
Comment by wilmo — 12.17.04 @ 2:20 pm
La Shawn,
I know my comment does not respond directly to the topic. I know it will be read by you, though, and want to tell you how much your beautiful smile inspires me each day. I hope a similar picture will be included on your new blog.
Thank you for all you do, Diane
Comment by Diane — 12.17.04 @ 8:07 pm
Comment by La Shawn — 12.17.04 @ 8:46 pm
I love the comments and always read them. Actually, I rather like some point/counter-point discussion, as long as it is polite, topic-oriented, not personal.
If your problem is work load, get some help. Find a trusted friend to screen comments for you and let you know when things need your attention. Or, are you a “control” person who cannot really, really hands-off delegate? Hmm.
If your problem is possibly some dissonance over contrarians, I think you need to take the high road and learn to ignore critics. You put yourself in the public square, and you’re going to take some hits once in a while. Just stay in the game. Don’t cave. You can always just delete them, can’t you?
If it helps, I have been reading blogs and comments for quite a while. Yours is the only one I felt motivated to comment on, and that was just a few days ago.
Comment by Charles — 12.18.04 @ 9:03 am