Nadia wrote:

"I would like to recommend sending spelling corrections to the individual
who sent the e-mail, off list, and allowing that person then to make the
decision to send an e-mail to the list pronouncing those corrections.  I
understand the argument for public admonishment, but I also understand the
frustration and embarrassment of having your errors pointed out in front of
the entire "public audience" of the list when you are trying to pass on
helpful information.

"It's a suggestion."

I think that's an excellent idea, Nadia, and I'll try it out--again--if the
situation arises.  Still, nothing's foolproof.  Occasionally I've written to
people off-list, and they resented it!  One guy threatened to sue me if I
ever presumed to write him off-list again--and all I did was ask him to
clarify something he wrote that I didn't understand.  Go figure.  Weeks later
he wrote to apologize, saying that a "heart condition" had made him
irrational.

I'm troubled by this notion of public "admonishment," however.  I still don't
think a quick correction of a misspelled name or a Latin word constitutes
admonishment, and don't think it's helpful to leave errors unchallenged.
Guess I just don't get it.

Now comes Indigo to accuse me of malice aforethought.  If that ain't
admonishment, I don't know what is.  No malice was intended, Indigo, but if
you'd prefer not to believe me and if it makes you feel better to think ill
of me, I'm pleased.  I explained the reasons for my "public" corrections, and
I'm sorry you don't accept my rationale.  Several people agreed with me in
off-list comments and compliments (thanks!), so I'm satisfied that not
everyone sees things your way.  I may wish they had said so on the list, but
they probably felt, wisely, it was better not to agitate detractors and
prolong the thread.  Indigo, I correct, you accuse and attack.  Readers can
make their own judgments.

Nadia's solution is undoubtedly more humane.  I agree, and won't say any more
on this topic.  Let's move on.

Cheers,
David Haberstich

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