More drama at LPSG (sigh)...
1). This seems to be a debate about both Spladle and the way the site is operated, resulting in muddy waters.
2). Those of us who have been around for a few months or more realize that the tone of Spladle's posts varies as often as his profile genders and percentages. He is a cybercreation. Why is everyone getting so revved up about his persona? He makes it clear that he is cruel, funny, casutic, over-the-top, etc., by design; it's his way of having fun. If anyone doesn't like his brand of humor, then all he/she has to do is skip his posts.
3) We went through a similar discussion a while ago about how much control mods/Rob should exert. IMO, what keeps this site compelling is that there does seem to be a sensible balance between freedom of speech and purging the board of trolls. I think Spladle is purposely doing this to see where the line in the sand is. To what lengths can he go before Rob or a mod says, "OK, this is enough."? He can reappear here in another persona of his creation if he thinks there is enough freedom for him to entertain himself and some of us. It appears that, if this thread accurately represents the gamut of opinions on the subject of where to draw the line, many members prefer civility, and others don't object to an abrasive style. I am among the latter. If MZ or Dr. Rock wants to tell me I'm a fucktard, I won't like it, but that's his/her choice. No cyberperson will cause much damage to my ego. Most of us by nature are considerate of others' feelings and don't post in a harsh style. The few who do serve as foils and give more dimension to the board. My two cents re Spladle's and others' atypical posts: Let them post, and other members can voice their outrage or support or indifference. Or close the thread or move past posts they find offensive. This is an extension of my aversion to any encroachment into my personal liberties. The hair on my neck stand up whenever I hear of censorship.
4) For the record, I didn't look at his photos for months. I couldn't care less what he looks like; I do, however, like the quirky persona he's created even though I understand why he may be offensive to some.