Wikipedia:No personal compliments
 | This page is intended as humor. It is not, has never been, nor will ever be, a Wikipedia policy or guideline. Rather, it illustrates standards or conduct that are generally not accepted by the Wikipedia community. |
 | This page in a nutshell: There is no excuse for personal compliments to other contributors. Please do not make them. It is your responsibility to foster and maintain a neutral online community in Wikipedia. |
Do not make personal compliments anywhere on Wikipedia. Comment on content, not on the contributor. Personal compliments will not help you make a point; they hurt the Wikipedia community by elevating a select group of users to an exalted status of highly complimented users.
Don't do it[edit]
There is no excuse for personal compliments to other contributors. Please do not make them, we strive to keep all contributors equal. Wikipedia is not a popularity contest. Saying that they are a good editor is a sign of weakness and is discouraged, unless you are hoping for votes at your upcoming RFA. If this is the case, ignore the above and flatter them.
No Barnstar Awards[edit]
Don't give {{Barnstar}} awards. They have a negative effect on Wikipedia as a whole.
Being reasonable[edit]
Different contributors may not agree on an article. Wikipedians reasonably wish to express their views. Synthesising these views into a single article creates a better, more NPOV article for everyone. Complimenting some users over others may elevate the value that their view is given. Remember to accept that we are all an equal part of the same community as we are all Wikipedians.
Alternatives[edit]
Instead:
- Discuss the facts, not the positive attributes of the other party. This does not mean that you have to attack the other person, just make neutral comments about them. For instance, do not say "That was a good edit". Just say "That was an edit".
- Never suggest that a view is excellent or well stated, just say that all views are welcome.
- Limit compliments to a less public forum like e-mail so other users on Wikipedia do not feel slighted by your reckless compliment making.
Community spirit[edit]
It is your responsibility to foster and maintain a neutral online community in Wikipedia. Personal compliments towards any user - regardless of his/her positive behavior - are contrary to this spirit.