Related to a thread about Moodle which veered into something of a flame war.

Lounge: How open source projects survive poisonous people

• don’t start a discussion with an “I HATE…” list
• respond sincerely and respectfully even if you suspect a possible trolly-conversation (Martin D.)
• give concrete practical suggestions for action (Martin L.)
• respond with light-hearted humor (Paul and his asbestos underpants) big grin
• it is OK to be passionate (Tim)
• take a step back and reflect on the process (Nicholas: “…can’t separate the code from the community…”)
• and there no need to be defensive about Moodle and its history–warts and all, we are who we are

These pieces of advice can work in many online contexts, IMHO.

(Comments closed because of unsollicited and inappropriate submissions…)