On comment spam

Perhaps considering a system like that which slashdot introduced, yet focused only on spam, would be apropriate. Give subscribers a 'Report as spam' button, and then let other subscribers check their work. Those who misuse the button, as evaluated by their fellow subscribers, would lose access to the button. Appeals to be handled by Jon. That would:

a) provide another benefit to subscribers
b) bring plenty of eyeballs to the spam problem
c) bring eyeballs to the reporters
d) not require hours of Jon's time, which is better spent on Grumpy Editor articles.

To flag a comment as spam should take more than one report (low percentage of subscriber views, perhaps?) and revocation of privleges should be based on bad reports over a specific timeframe.

The rules for using the button would be simple: Use to report comment advertising. Use of the button to flag comments for other reasons will result in loss of privleges.