 | This is an essay on civility. It contains the advice or opinions of one or more Wikipedia contributors. This page is not an encyclopedia article, nor is it one of Wikipedia's policies or guidelines, as it has not been thoroughly vetted by the community. Some essays represent widespread norms; others only represent minority viewpoints. |
 | This page in a nutshell: Most people have an idea of what is rude and what isn't. However, sometimes people intentionally attack others, for personal satisfaction or another reason. Instead of letting yourself do this, be civil and respectful to others. |
When a discussion on a talk page becomes heated, it is easy to confuse being rude with sharing your opinions. We want to get our points across, so we try whatever we can to get another person to agree with us. Also, the stress of editing and trying to improve Wikipedia can sometimes get the better of us. Other times, people are intentionally rude so they can receive a reaction and make the other person frustrated. This kind of behavior is inappropriate, immature, and can be hurtful, especially to newcomers. If you are unsure if something you write will hurt or offend someone else — don't write it.
Why being rude is inappropriate
editBeing rude means speaking or acting in a way that is impolite or discourteous, usually in an intentional way. This might include personal attacks, edit wars, hostile comments, and being prejudiced toward certain users. However, most people don't need an explanation of what's rude and what isn't; we already know. There are reasons why rudeness is inappropriate on Wikipedia:
- It keeps away newcomers. Newcomers have much to learn about how Wikipedia works. By attacking or insulting them, you tell them that they are not welcome to contribute to Wikipedia. Also, someone might take these attacks personally and be hurt.
- It damages the encyclopedia. Editors who are rude deter other editors from challenging their edits. Editing Wikipedia is a voluntary occupation and editors may choose to move away from a disagreement rather than engage with someone who is abusive. This can result in articles of poorer quality because debate about them is stifled.
Being rude is often cyberbullying
editOften, being rude on Wikipedia can fall under many definitions of cyberbullying. Really, think about it. Whether you call this behavior being rude, being mean or cyberbullying, it is inappropriate on Wikipedia and all other places.
Use common sense
editIt is obvious that being rude is unnecessary and uncivil. When deciding what to say to people on Wikipedia, it is important that we use common sense. Instead of saying anything, we should ask ourselves, "Would this offend or hurt me if someone said it to me?" Just say what you know is reasonable!