Closed Threads: Answers to 'Why?' and 'Who?' Questions

In summary, threads are closed for various reasons such as violating forum guidelines, containing inappropriate content, or not contributing to productive discussion. It is important for users to read and follow the forum guidelines to avoid their threads from being closed.
  • #1
lundq
3
0
I'm new to this forum and I wonder when and why some threads are closed and who is doing it? Why was for instance the thread "Answer to Ivan 2" closed? Does it have to do with what you are allowed to write and not!
 
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  • #2
lundq said:
I'm new to this forum and I wonder when and why some threads are closed and who is doing it? Why was for instance the thread "Answer to Ivan 2" closed? Does it have to do with what you are allowed to write and not!
Threads that are addressed to a single person, or with the intent of having a discussion with one person are not allowed, that is what private messaging is for.

A thread can be closed for numerous reasons. The most common reasons are threads that are meant to flame, the content has no merit, the content is already discussed in another thread, the thread is not progressing (circular arguments), inappropriate content, etc...
 
  • #3
Hi lundq,
As a rule I don't close many threads. Please feel free to post. :smile:
 
  • #4
Evo said:
Threads that are addressed to a single person, or with the intent of having a discussion with one person are not allowed, that is what private messaging is for.

A thread can be closed for numerous reasons. The most common reasons are threads that are meant to flame, the content has no merit, the content is already discussed in another thread, the thread is not progressing (circular arguments), inappropriate content, etc...

It would be useful to have these rules made available, or perhaps they are and I just haven't seen them. They seem to make sense, and would probably save a lot of confusion if users knew what they are. It feels unfair when you are confronted with a rule you didn't know existed.
 
  • #5
the number 42 said:
It would be useful to have these rules made available, or perhaps they are and I just haven't seen them. They seem to make sense, and would probably save a lot of confusion if users knew what they are. It feels unfair when you are confronted with a rule you didn't know existed.
The rules are in the PF Guidelines which new members are advised to read when they register. Here is the link https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=5374

Here are the specific infractions I listed.

PM Guidelines:
If exclusively personal contact is needed, use the Private Message system. Do not post a topic where only one member is expected to answer.

Contact Guidelines:
When contacting me (Greg) or a specific mentor please make use of our Private Message system or email us. Do not post a topic in a forum regarding your situation.

Langauge Guidelines:
Any foul or hostile language used in Physics Forums will not be tolerated. This includes any derogatory statements and profanity. Direct or indirect personal attacks are strictly not permitted. Insults and negative attitudes are not allowed. It is better to walk away from a possible confontation and come back with constructive arguments.

Posting Guidelines:
When posting a new topic, please select the forum that best relates to the subject matter of your topic. If you are unsure, contact a mentor or the admin. Redundant topics are not allowed and are considered spam.

General:
All messages express the views of the author, not necessarily the views of the forum owners. The owners and mentors of Physics Forums reserve the right to remove, edit, move or close any thread for any reason.

Disciplinary Action:
If any of the above is violated a warning will be issued to the offending member. A 2nd violation will result in a two week ban. If a third violation occurs, the offending member will be permanently removed from Physics Forums.

As you can see, Ivan has been overly tolerant.
 
  • #6
Read the posting guidelines in the PF community forum.
 
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  • #7
We want everyone to have the chance to make their case but I usually do close threads where: Specific, easily testable claims are made with no evidence to support them, the claim is known beyond all doubt to be nonsense, the discussion has spiraled out of control, the discussion becomes too abusive, or if the discussion degenerates into gibberish.
 

Related to Closed Threads: Answers to 'Why?' and 'Who?' Questions

1. Why do threads get closed?

Threads can get closed for a variety of reasons. Some common reasons include violation of the forum's rules or guidelines, the topic being resolved or no longer relevant, or excessive spam or off-topic posts.

2. Who decides to close a thread?

The decision to close a thread is typically made by the moderators or administrators of the forum. They are responsible for enforcing the rules and guidelines and maintaining the overall quality of discussions on the forum.

3. Can a closed thread be reopened?

In most cases, yes. If a closed thread is still relevant and follows the forum's rules, it can be reopened by a moderator or administrator. However, if the thread was closed for a specific reason, such as a resolved issue, it may not be reopened.

4. What happens to a thread after it is closed?

After a thread is closed, it will no longer accept new replies or comments. However, the thread will still be visible on the forum for future reference. Depending on the forum's settings, closed threads may also be archived or moved to a different section of the forum.

5. Can I request for a thread to be closed?

Yes, most forums allow users to report or request for a thread to be closed if they feel that it violates the forum's rules or is no longer relevant. Moderators will review the request and determine if the thread should be closed.

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