Google Reins In Workplace Debate

Google is trying to quell the debates roiling its workforce by setting new internal rules designed to limit offensive language and personal attacks against fellow employees. In a set of guidelines sent to employees, Google said it would discipline anyone who discriminates against or attacks colleagues or engages in discussions that are "disruptive to a productive work environment," according to a copy of the guidelines reviewed by The Wall Street Journal. The rules aim to curb so-called trolling--in which people are deliberately provocative or offensive online in order to elicit strong reactions--as well as "blanket statements about groups or categories of people." For Google, which has long prized its culture of open debate, the rules present fresh challenges about how to police employee speech while continuing to encourage free expression and unconventional thinking. Google sent employees what it called Community Guidelines last week, designed to limit offensive language and personal attacks.