Too much censorship on the forums?

[Hanna]

Well it wouldn't really, would it? The internet is so vast that I doubt whether a few people posing as "normal" internet users will make much difference. .

I've also just read how you dislike the "black-painting" of Russia on this site. In my opinion, you should distinguish between criticism of certain aspects of Russia - and specifically a small, corrupt group of people in power - and the country itself. Personally I deplore what's happening to Russia at the moment precisely because I respect her people and culture and history.

I would much rather be a member of a forum where there are lively disagreements, than read endlessly polite platitudes: спор между форумчанами до добра доведет!

There should be no censorship here at all. Frankly, I find it "detskii sad".

I particularly dislike when people come to this site and think they are going to tell Russians what's wrong with their country, in an arrogant or patronising way. Or go on about supposed wrongs in Russia's past, or the general evilness of Putin. First of all, they already know it, and secondly it's pretty rude. After all, this is a forum about Russia. and the language. What would you say if somebody asked your help with English studies and then proceeded to insult Britain's past, present, queen and government.

For the most part, such people are either ignorant, or a besserwisser basing their info on skimming English speaking media and watching a few documentaries.

I think people should come with the aim of learning, and an open mind. Unless you lived in Russia for many years, and speak Russian fluently, the average Russian person is going to be one up on you on any political, historical or cultural matter.