Principle 01 / 04Empirical rigorCommunity guidelines
Bring evidence.
Support factual claims with reliable sources. Be clear about what is known, uncertain or your own opinion.
Put it into practice.
- Link to the source behind a factual claim.
- Separate what the evidence shows from your interpretation.
- Acknowledge uncertainty and correct mistakes when you find them.
AT THE TABLE · IN PRACTICEReactive noise to avoid“Everyone knows dedicated bus lanes just make city traffic worse.”
Counterpoints standard“The 2024 corridor audit (pp. 14–19) recorded a 22% drop in bus delays, though side-street freight loading required new bays.”
Principle 02 / 04Intellectual humilityCommunity guidelines
Stay curious.
Represent opposing views fairly. Ask questions before assuming someone’s intent.
Put it into practice.
- Consider the strongest version of the opposing argument.
- Ask a clarifying question when something is unclear.
- Leave room for new evidence to change your perspective.
AT THE TABLE · IN PRACTICEReactive noise to avoid“Anyone opposing this policy clearly doesn’t care about transparency.”
Counterpoints standard“What safeguard would prevent a one-page summary from omitting complex zoning clauses that residents rely on?”
Principle 03 / 04Civic respectCommunity guidelines
Listen well.
Challenge the argument without attacking its author. Harassment and sharing private information have no place here.
Put it into practice.
- Respond to the idea rather than making personal attacks.
- Keep other people’s private information private.
- Treat disagreement as a chance to understand another point of view.
AT THE TABLE · IN PRACTICEReactive noise to avoid“You clearly haven’t read a municipal budget in your life.”
Counterpoints standard“That budget figure covers capital outlay rather than annual maintenance—if we include upkeep, the 5-year cost shifts.”
Principle 04 / 04Constructive structureCommunity guidelines
Make room.
Keep replies relevant, explain your reasoning and leave space for others to change your mind.
Put it into practice.
- Add a clear, relevant point to the discussion.
- Explain your reasoning and avoid repeating the same argument.
- Recognize thoughtful contributions, including those you disagree with.
AT THE TABLE · IN PRACTICEReactive noise to avoidReposting the same slogan across multiple threads to drown out dissent.
Counterpoints standardBacking a well-sourced opposing point and adding a focused rebuttal on where the trade-offs lie.
