I understand what you are saying, but I don't think this is a good solution. Partly because in an online community, there are typically records of everything th

I understand what you are saying, but I don't think this is a good solution. Partly because in an online community, there are typically records of everything that is said so finding the instigator should be quite easy. Consider two different conversations: Conversation A: Person 1 (repeatedly) makes discriminatory comments towards person 2 Person 2 makes only non-discriminatory comments back Conversation B: Person 1 (repeatedly) makes discriminatory comments towards person 2 Person 2 same as above, but eventually makes a discriminatory comment back In conversation B, there was no reason for person 2 to make the discriminatory comment other than their emotions got the better of them and they were dragged down to the level of person 1. But I see no reason why this should be forgiven. Person 2 still made discriminatory comments which violated the code of conduct. We could argue over the appropriate level of retribution they each deserve, but I don't think they should get a free pass. Giving them one encourages a "fight fire with fire" attitude which simply leads to more discrimination. The solution in my eyes is to have a clear definition of discriminatory/harassing comments and enforce it consistently. Stronger repercussions for repeat offenders, warnings for the occasional slip up.