[Wiki] changed: FAQ/Admin/Miscellaneous

guest [173.10.34.137]  Thu, 29 Jan 2009 14:37:39 -0500

Modified page: http://wiki.horde.org/FAQ/Admin/Miscellaneous
New Revision:  1.5
Change log:  Added etymology of the word "blacklist"

@@ -24,6 +24,8 @@

  +++ Why do you use the terms blacklist and whitelist?  Those terms  
are racist.

  No, they are not.  See, e.g.,  
[http://marc.theaimsgroup.com/?l=imp&m=113435148814240&w=2 one of many  
mailing list discussions on the origins of ther terms].  Simply put,  
"blacklist" and "whitelist" are the most concise terms we can use to  
accurately describe the underlying filtering mechanism.  (If you can  
think of a more precise term, let us know!)
+
+In all truth, The term blacklist is a derivative of the term "in  
one's black Book." this term was used most notably by Henry VII and  
Joseph McCarthy, although by countless others for various reasons, to  
denote those out of favor with a given class or group. It was intended  
to imply that those listed were people who committed unfavorable or  
devious acts in the cover of shadow, and It's probable first use was  
in the reign of Charles II, with reference to a list of persons  
implicated in the trial and execution of his father. The term has been  
used for hundreds of years to denote those who were boycotted or  
disallowed because of their social standing or their actions. This  
etymological history in no way indicates a racial origin.

  If you want to change the terms on your local install, see our  
[http://wiki.horde.org/FAQ/Admin/Config?referrer=FAQ%2FAdmin#toc5  
documentation on how to change phrases].


--
To unsubscribe, mail: [email protected]