Topic on Talk:Wikimedia Technical Engagement/Team Social Norms

Quiddity (WMF) (talkcontribs)

We were talking about the "no subtle -isms" item, and Bryan had a good explanation that included some comments about the distinction between how a word/phrase was intended, vs how it was received, and trying to be mindful of the latter.

I think it would be really useful to add that abstract explanation into this page. I don't recall the specific phrasing that was used, and don't want to get into specific examples, so I'm hoping Bryan or someone can help.

It could potentially also/alternatively be mentioned within any of the "Do apologize" or "Do forgive" or "Do reflect" items.

Part of it is "know your audience" (e.g. not making 'mature' jokes around people unless you know them really well). But that's not possible in an public/broadcast settings, where the potential audience is the whole world!

One way that I'm thinking about this, is trying to be aware of the complexity of words with different nuanced meanings in different contexts. I.e. Many words can be understood in different ways, and that if you're talking to someone outside of your closest peer group it's good to remember to try to be aware of the possible misinterpretations.

Reply to "Reception vs Intent"