Template talk:Discouraged

Reason

Suggest adding an optional parameter to include a reason or reference to why user is feeling discouraged (e.g. a link to a dispute discussion or similar). David Condrey ^{log talk} 06:47, 10 September 2015 (UTC)[reply]

@David Condrey: I've added a reason parameter, but I'm not sure how good it is. Adam9007 (talk) 02:34, 27 May 2018 (UTC)[reply]

David Condrey ^{log talk} 03:34, 27 May 2018 (UTC)[reply]

Using a photograph of a potentially-identifiable person

I feel that the use of File:Sad Old Woman.jpg in this template, and the related {{User discouraged}}, is somewhat exploitative. I recognise that this is probably not a legal issue (either in the US or in Iran, the original jurisdiction), as it doesn't appear to be a breach of a defined expectation of privacy, and the use isn't explicitly defamatory, but I still feel a certain concern over the morality of our using the image in this context. Noting Wikipedia:Image use policy § Moral issues; The following types of image are normally considered unacceptable: ...Those that unfairly demean or ridicule the subject.

I would appreciate hearing opinions from other editors on this. Thanks. XAM2175 ^(T) 11:51, 18 February 2023 (UTC)[reply]

@XAM2175: Yes, this is reminiscent of what's going in the web with exploitative memes. Even though I can't see any intent to "unfairly demean or ridicule the subject" in this case (people use the template to express their discouragement), still it doesn't feel right to turn an individual expression into a stereotyped living emoji. Ideally, we should replace it with a free licence pic of an artistic impression of sadness (e.g. this one). –Austronesier (talk) 12:54, 24 February 2023 (UTC)[reply]

Sorry, I wasn't very clear – I don't think there was actual intent to demean or ridicule in this case. I was trying to suggest that policy did have some considering towards exploitative use and that this use is a bit closer to that than it is harmless. I also appreciate you finding that alternative. I might boldly apply it a few days from now if there's no more said here. XAM2175 ^(T) 11:02, 25 February 2023 (UTC)[reply]