We affirm that the ability to communicate is central to what it means to be human.
Unfortunately, although communications technologies have vastly increased the quantity of communications, they have tended to reduce the quality by subverting the weight and meaning of individuals’ words.
Therefore, we should draft some type of charter for how to communicate fairly, respectfully, and effectively online. People can refer to this as a source of mutual understanding. This might include: 1) Categories for the type of conversation (private, academic, casual); 2) Categories for the types of relationship involved (friends, acquaintances, strangers).