Discourse META ... why?

Contribute Site feedback

AI-generated summary

The discussion revolves around the origin and meaning of the term “meta” in the context of Discourse. dickhoning asked why the name “Discourse META” is used and why “meta” is included in the domain name. merefield provided a link to a Discourse blog post explaining that “meta” refers to discussions about the discussion itself, including the style, participants, setting, and relationship to other discussions.

Decorbuz clarified that the term “meta” has no connection to Facebook. tobiaseigen mentioned that Discourse forums originally had a “meta” category for site feedback, which was later changed to “#site-feedback”. Canapin wondered how many people are familiar with the meaning of “meta” and provided examples of modern forum engines that don’t use “forum” as their subdomain.

tobiaseigen confirmed that the subdomain “meta” was used in the past. The conversation concluded with JimPas thanking tobiaseigen for his contributions to Discourse, and tobiaseigen reflecting on the platform’s progress since its inception.

1

Hi there, just wondering you use the name Dicourse META and why have meta. in front of your domain name?

1 Like
3

Specifically:

What is “Meta”?

"Meta means discussion of the discussion itself instead of the actual topic of the discussion. That is, discussions about…

  • The style of discussion.
  • The participants in the discussion.
  • The setting in which the discussion occurs.
  • The relationship of the discussion to other discussions."
20 Likes
4

And just to clear any possible confusion, it has nothing to do with (what was formerly) Facebook! :wink:

5 Likes
5

Discourse forums originally also all had a meta category, for site feedback. The term is a bit arcane so the default name for the site feedback category was changed to.. wait for it…

Contribute > Site feedback

3 Likes
6

I wonder how much people here know the actual meaning of the meta prefix.
I guess a fair proportion… But who knows?

Also, slightly related:

https://meta.discourse.org/t/what-do-you-all-call-your-discourse-forum/160991/5?u=canapin

Was the subdomain “meta” as well then?

3 Likes
7

Yes it was! Very meta, to be sure.

4 Likes
8

Happy :cake:, Tobias! Thank you for all you’ve contributed to Discourse.

4 Likes
9

Thanks! We’ve come a long way since 12 February, 2014! It’s been a privilege to be along for the ride, and now even to be working here as product manager for Discourse for teams! :smiling_face_with_three_hearts:

7 Likes