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BGonline.org Forums
Rules/Ethics Question from Novi
Posted By: Michael Petch In Response To: Rules/Ethics Question from Novi (Steve Mellen)
Date: Friday, 15 July 2011, at 3:39 p.m.
SM: "(1) If I had accepted Jason's resignation, would the match be over? What if he realized his mistake immediately afterwards? What if he realized his mistake after we had packed up the board, or after the result had been reported?"
I would say the result stands if neither player noticed the problem right away. I think once the board is torn down that the result stands - end of story. If it is noticed right away (and the board is intact) then I would say the match should be properly completed. Of course calling a TD over would also be prudent if there is any opposition. I think this one comes down to sportsmanlike conduct.
SM:"(2) As an ethical matter, was I obligated to point out his mistake?". If you didn't notice the problem yourself it isn't an ethical matter. If you accepted the resignation and knew of the mistake, yeah that's unsportmanlike conduct, and sure would be an ethical issue. I know I'd have a guilty conscience if I did it knowingly.
SM:"(3) If some people find the ethical question too easy, here is a similar situation that comes up quite a bit. Often a player will concede the game or the match when he still has a miniscule chance to win or save the gammon (he rolls 6-6 three times while you roll 2-1 twice, or whatever). Maybe he realizes he has a tiny chance and just doesn't care, or maybe he doesn't realize it. Is it wrong to accept his resignation if you see that he still has a mathematical chance? Should you point out to him that he still has a chance before you accept? "
Okay, I am only speaking of online play in this regard. If it is a position of contact I will always refuse. And online you'd be surprised how often I see that happen. Now if the position is not a contact position and the opponent resigns early (they concede gammon when gammon can be saved) then I would point this out to my opponent. If my opponent still decides to let the result stand after I point it out, I will accept it. As for ethics, I guess if you know they are resigning prematurely it might be debatable. I personally will let my opp know and give them a choice. In doing so I don't feel I was a bad sport about it.
Over the board, I am curious - Do you find opponents who hates to be criticized and may blow up if you suggest they gave up early? If a player feels intimidated by an abusive opponent then it may just be better to ignore it and avoid the potential conflict. I know some people online who do not appreciate me pointing out that they might be able to save gammon/backgammon etc and go ballistic. I'm not intimidated but others might be, and will just accept what the opponent does and doesn't question it.
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