[Note that this creed is specifically for Personal Bloggers. If you’re a Corporate Blogger you might find this Draft Code of Conduct, Corporate Blogger’s Creed, somewhat tongue-in-cheek but excellent Business Blogger’s Creed and these Legal Guidelines useful.]

What is a Creed?

‘Creed’ comes from the Latin word “credere” — to believe — and is a statement of principles or beliefs. It is different to a Code of Conduct, which is normally enforced or controlled by an industry body. A creed is a totally voluntary adoption of a framework, and often refers to a religious belief system. A belief system cannot be imposed. In this sense, a creed is simply a statement of an individual’s philosophy.

Personal bloggers, by definition, are answerable to no-one, and this invariably leads to widely differing standards of personal blogs. After a considerable and fruitless search for a simple creed I could subscribe to, I thought I’d table what is important to me. Your comments, suggestions and criticisms are welcomed. And if it makes sense to you, why not voice your support by leaving a comment. Who knows, there might even be a need to create a site listing all blogs who voluntarily subscribe to the Personal Blogger’s Creed.

The Personal Blogger’s Creed

I believe in the right to Freedom of Expression, which permits a blogger to write about anything on their mind.

I believe in personal accountability for the outcome of anything blogged.

I believe that a blogger should write only what they hold in their heart to be true; that writing purely for the sake of SEO results or advertising revenue, whether on their own blog or commenting on another’s, is indefensible.

I believe that blogging which succeeds best — and best deserves success — is considerate of the reader, and thus provides meaningful content which educates, inspires, assists and guides; that the supreme test of good blogging is the measure of usefulness to the reader.

I believe that creation is infinitely more valuable than duplication; that where duplication is necessary it should be accompanied by a new thought, an expanded idea, or a valuable discussion.

Your thoughts?

Date posted : October 20th, 2007 by Michael Haupt Last Modified : October 22nd, 2007 / Filed under : Musings / Report a Concern Navigate : Previous post / Next post / Top of Page
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