When we hurt ourselves. Review on Writing Reviews on MouthShut

There are two ways of looking at my write-up on this particular title; one – MS as a forum for us to share views and exchange information on consumerism or products, two – as a reaction to the comments on a particular review. The onus lies on our side because we make it happen on the MS forum and the website is the powerful medium that provides the opportunity of expressing ourselves.

I am not writing this to judge actions or point a finger, just emphasizing the need to make MS forum the best place for all of us to share our views on products or anything under the sun. But, would like to make a mention of the comments made by a member (munna4bhai) on a review are certainly despicable. This is basically because every forum, whether at home or at office or at social gatherings or booze parties, has a code of decency and violating such codes is equal to insulting oneself.

The Etiquette - While in a discussion it always happens that we tend to get angry at another persons view or opinion, and we begin to put down the other person or even insult them, when we are not in a comfortable position. A forum is place where all of us are given an opportunity to exchange our views and information. So respecting the other is the code of conduct.

The Language – This of course we need not be told because all of us are aware and may be very few speak language that can’t be appreciated/ tolerated by others. One simply can’t just get away using filthy language especially when the forum has so many people from various walks of life and belonging to different ages. Also, being young doesn’t give a person the authority to use offensive language (Unfortunately, I happened to read munna4bhai’s language very late and was aghast). Language is a rare gift that not all creations of God seem to have received. Why don’t we make the best use of it?

As a feedback community – We need to talk and comment about an issue or a product, where does the question of involving personal attributes find place at all. Even if the issue were to be something on a personal experience, we need to discuss the issue and not the person. Do we need to be told that ability of comprehension and expression make us superior to animals.

Insulting - I am not too sure if I am right, but insulting women, who ever they may be; is like insulting oneself in public. The question of a person’s background does not arise because such a person is totally insecure when he is amidst so many people.