HI, I thought I would come back on here since I had had a couple of weeks to make more observations as a relative newcomer and also someone else has recently raised a similar query in a new thread.
From what I can see across the various posts and wide range of threads, most people on GN seem very nice, helpful, and willing to share their knowledge and experiences. Not everyone is only ever a sweet and gentle Granny, which is perfectly realistic. Some people are openly more direct than others, which is also fine.
There does seem to be some evidence that some posters will always defend some others, no matter what has been posted. However, I haven't observed high volumes of this, just a few instances. Again, this would take place in some face to face groups.
Others scream "Report" or "Reported" as soon as they come across anything they don't agree with, which could be a complete topic or a single word ( eg S.E.X.) People are entitled to report.
However, overall, I can't see anything very untoward taking place. And of course one of the reasons for that is that comments considered by GNHQ to be out-with the rules are deleted. None of us can learn from these as we don't see them. Some of us no doubt would relish seeing them for mere additional entertainment value!
In conclusion, as a site for adults, in my opinion an adult approach should be taken. Although the current GN rules are that we should report things where we feel this is necessary, and so we cannot then condemn people for following the rules, maybe we could ask GN if the rules could be amended and the offensive posts remain visible so that we can all see where the rules have been broken, and so avoid doing the same ourselves. And equally, if a report has been submitted and GNHQ deems it to be inoffensive then that too should be shown in the thread by GMHQ, again to help guide us all.