I think the bright-line rules serve several important purposes. They are not replacements for “don’t be an a**hole,” but are rather complements. A norm against seeking romantic or sexual connection during EAG events, for instance, is intended in part to equalize opportunities for professional networking at a networking event (which doesn’t happen if, e.g., some people are setting up 1:1s for romantic purposes).
It is easier for everyone to realize when a bright-line norm would or has been breached. That should make it more likely that the norms won’t be breached in the first place, but also should make it more likely that norm violations will be reported and that appropriate action will be taken.
I think the bright-line rules serve several important purposes. They are not replacements for “don’t be an a**hole,” but are rather complements. A norm against seeking romantic or sexual connection during EAG events, for instance, is intended in part to equalize opportunities for professional networking at a networking event (which doesn’t happen if, e.g., some people are setting up 1:1s for romantic purposes).
It is easier for everyone to realize when a bright-line norm would or has been breached. That should make it more likely that the norms won’t be breached in the first place, but also should make it more likely that norm violations will be reported and that appropriate action will be taken.
So I think this is a both/and situation.