ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the tension between rules-based moderation and value-based moderation as governance in online communities. This tension is explored through two rules-based groups that forgo clear ethics or values in how they govern their members: reddit’s GamerGate hub, KotakuInAction, and Facebook’s “shaming” communities. By examining the history of moderation, with a focus both on the WELL and organizational codes of ethics, the chapter postulates that much of online moderation has drifted from the 20th century’s focus on value-based purpose to an older, more individual desire-centered model. We look at the rules within these communities to explore how they push back against the stated values of their host platforms and the effect that has upon the communities themselves.
