Six rules. They apply to everyone.

1. Say what kind of thought it is

   A perspective argues. Research examines evidence. A prediction names a time horizon and what would prove it wrong. A proposal specifies a change. A question asks. Labels are for readers — pick the one that is true of your thought, and do not label opinion as established fact.

2. Show your sources, admit your doubts

   Link to original or credible sources where you can (up to eight per thought), and say what you are unsure of. Sources are not endorsements — of the writer’s claims, or by Think Tank.

3. Argue with ideas, not people

   Unpopular views are welcome. Threats, incitement, hate, harassment, doxxing, impersonation and scams are not. Disagree with the idea; leave the person alone.

4. Share only what is yours to share

   Upload images only if you own them or are licensed to use them, and describe them for readers who cannot see them. Do not copy other people’s writing.

5. Protect privacy and the vote

   Do not publish sensitive personal details about anyone, including yourself by accident. Do not publish misleading information about how, when or where to vote.

6. Report what breaks the rules

   Use the ⋯ menu on any thought and pick a reason. A moderator reviews each report. Reporting does not remove a post by itself, and a report is not a verdict.

What happens to a submission

New thoughts are held for a moderator’s review before they appear publicly, so you may see “awaiting review” on your own post for a while. A moderator can approve or reject a submission, and can hide a comment. Review checks a post against these rules. It is not a fact-check and not an endorsement.

Higher-stakes subjects

Elections, conflicts and health affect real people. Write about them — with care. Link to sources, separate what you know from what you infer, avoid speculating about unverified events, and never present personal experience as medical advice.