[from Gary Cziko 940601.1725 GMT]
NOTE: The following is intended for mature audiences only. Individuals
under 17 should read this only when accompanied by a responsible adult over
18.
Why is CSGnet is like a penis? (stolen and adapted from Cyperspace)
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It can be up or down. It's more fun when it's up, but it makes it hard to
get any real work done.
When first established, its only purpose was to transmit information
considered vital to the survival of the CSG. Some people still think
that's the only thing it should be used for, but most folks today use it
for fun most of the time.
It provides a way to interact with other people. Some people take this
interaction very seriously, others treat it as a lark. Sometimes it's hard
to tell what kind of person you're dealing with until it's too late.
If you don't apply the appropriate protective measures, it can spread viruses.
It has no brain of its own. Instead, it uses yours. If you use it too
much, you'll find it becomes more and more difficult to think coherently.
We attach an importance to it that is far greater than its actual size
and influence warrant.
It has its own agenda. Somehow, no matter how good your intentions, it
will warp your behavior. Later you may ask yourself "why on earth did I do
that?"
Some folks have it, some don't.
Those who have it would be devastated if it were ever cut off. They think
that those who don't have it are somehow inferior. They think it gives them
power.
Those who don't have it may agree that it's a nifty toy, but think it's not
worth the fuss that those who do have it make about it. Still, many of
those who don't have it would like to try it.
Once you've started playing with it, it's hard to stop. Some people would
just play with it all day if they didn't have work to do.