Yes, a human being does run Craigslist.
"Possibly the only CEO ever described as anit-establishment, a communist, and a social anarchist, since 2000 Jim Buckmaster has led craigslist to be the most used classifieds in any medium, and one of world's most popular websites, while maintaining its public service mission, non-corporate vibe, and staff of under 20"
Craigslist was started as a way to fight against our "disposable society" by creating a platform in which people could sell used items or give them away on the "free list". This has helped to keep a lot of things out of the landfills. They have kept most postings free and refused all pay-per-click and other adv. offers and never "sold-out" there principles. They have started a charitable ornization recently. There was an article in the local paper about how Craigslist had helped connect hundreds of struggling families with individuals kind enough offering help with presents, food, ect. for Christmas last year.
Basically, I can think of a few more evil corporations.
I think the problem is that the adult services, erotic services, or whatever you want to call it section attracts people less likly to flag bad ads then other sections. I think the reason this section was started was to get all the postings for sexual services of the sections for massage artists and community personal ads who all complained about having to filter through these.
By creating a free platform to connect people, craigslist offers a great service to communities, recycling initiatives, helps people suppliment there income, and helps diminish the advantages large corporations have over private individuals looking to sell items. It also offers a platform for messed up people to connect with the exploited, as part of it's nature. It also ensures anyone posting or seeing these ads knows that the community has been encouraged to report these ads to law enforcement and does cooperate with police investigations.
Thanks for listening - from a former homeless woman who recycled, repaired & resold the "free list" untill I could buy a craigslist mobile home - a woman who has helped provide 3 Christman dinners directly to people needing them later through Craigslist - and the buyer & seller of nearly everything I have owned through Craigslist...better to reuse then go to Walmart!
For anyone doubting, here is an UN report including footage of the illegal white phosphorous attach on a UN school: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/middle_east/7839863.stm
Here is a documented account of the rockets fired into Israel, how they stopped after the June 08 ceasefire between Israel and HAMAS, and how they only restarted after Israel refused to live up to its end of the deal, ending the blockades that have lead to a an extreme humanitarian situation in Gaza where the Palestinians cannot obtain food, water, or necessary supplies: http://216.24.170.159/resources/pdfs/peace/conflict_resolution/Gaza_movement_and_fatalities_report%20FINAL%201%2022%2009.pdf
The blockade on Gaza is only one example of the terrible treatment of the Palestinians ever since they democratically elected HAMAS into government after the US encouraged elections. Another example is the unpoliced abuse and murder of citizens and arrests without cause, including those of children: http://www.dci-pal.org/english/doclist.cfm?categoryid=2
Hamas acts as a radical wing because they are attacked brutally b the Israelis. People much more willing to become suicide bombers after their homes are destroyed and their children burned to death by white phosphorous and support for Hamas has grown after Israel’s war crimes against the people of Gaza. According to many sources, Hamas is willing to enter a long term peace arrangement with Israel if they will stop attacking and blockading Gaza. Take a look at the work Jimmy Carter has been doing for support: http://www.cartercenter.org/countries/israel_and_the_palestinian_territories.html
Please write or call the ICC and encourage them to investigate Israel’s war crimes:International Criminal CourtThe HagueBezuidenhoutseweg 99a2594 AC The HagueThe NetherlandsTelephone: +31-70-363-4484Fax: +31-70-364-0259E-mail: cicc-hague@iccnow.org