The mods can’t realistically call different strike zones based on whether or not “expected value of the stuff [a poster says] remains high.” Not only does that make them look non-impartial, it actually is non-impartial.
Plus, warnings and bans are the primary methods by which the mods give substance to the floor of what forum norms require. That educative function requires a fairly consistent floor. If a comment doesn’t draw a warning, it’s at least a weak signal that the comment doesn’t cross the line.
I do think a history of positive contributions is relevant to the sanction.
The mods can’t realistically call different strike zones based on whether or not “expected value of the stuff [a poster says] remains high.” Not only does that make them look non-impartial, it actually is non-impartial.
Plus, warnings and bans are the primary methods by which the mods give substance to the floor of what forum norms require. That educative function requires a fairly consistent floor. If a comment doesn’t draw a warning, it’s at least a weak signal that the comment doesn’t cross the line.
I do think a history of positive contributions is relevant to the sanction.