Replies to spam

[Warren Block]

On Thu, 24 Nov 2016, Jonathan McKeown wrote:

> On 24 Nov 2016 19:11, "Bertram Scharpf" <lists at bertram-scharpf.de> wrote:
>>
> [snip]
>>
>> Why is it possible to post as a non-subscriber at all?
>
> The answer to this frequently-asked question is: to make it easier for new
> users to ask for help.

Another reason cited is that this is the address given in the Handbook 
for new users to ask questions.  This could easily be changed to 
something else, like the forums.  The forums are arguably more familiar 
to current internet users than mailing lists.

> Every time this debate takes place, there is a great deal of heat before
> this reason is affirmed and the decision is made not to change it.

It has been so far, often with the justification that this is what we 
have always done.  I am of the opinion that eventually the mailing lists 
will require subscription or become irrelevant.  Times have changed from 
twenty years ago, and will continue to change.