[Auntie Mame]

The clique problem could be handled simply by revolving moderators. Say, each moderator has a six month tenure and then they retire. Others take their place. With a six month retirement a mod could return for six months. This would give more people the opportunity to experience the moderator experience and a greater understanding and forgiveness when mistakes are made. Also, more members would have a personal investment in the forum.

[McB.]

Good idea. Like you said, it gives more people the experience of what it's like behind the scenes. The problems and work involved in moderating a site this size must be huge.

[Timesink]

Say, each moderator has a six month tenure and then they retire. Others take their place. With a six month retirement a mod could return for six months.

The same would have to be done with the FAB as well for it to really have an effect, and I think the chances of that happening are nil.

But then, I don't think the 6-month term limit on moderators will ever happen either. Like it or not, the reality is that FR has a Star Chamber in the background. I can only guess that it's made up either of people that JimRob knows and trusts personally, or of people who have been members since as far back as 1997 or so. In any case, 99% of us posters are never going to be invited into that club, no matter what.

(I should add that I've never seen any moderator or anyone else With Power act in an unethical fashion towards any mortal Freeper. I wish the Star Chamber would include more relative newbies who've proven themselves as serious posters over time, but I don't believe there's anything wrong with the way the men behind the curtain are running things.)