The act of submitting a complaint regarding a specific community on Reddit, citing violations of platform content policies, is a critical mechanism for maintaining a safe and respectful environment. This process allows users to bring potentially harmful or policy-breaching content and behaviors to the attention of Reddit’s administrators. For instance, if a community promotes violence, engages in harassment, or facilitates illegal activities, this constitutes valid grounds for initiating a formal report.
The availability of this reporting functionality is essential for promoting responsible community management and fostering a positive user experience. Historically, unchecked online communities have demonstrated the potential for rapid escalation of harmful behaviors. By empowering users to flag concerning content, Reddit aims to mitigate the spread of misinformation, hate speech, and other forms of abuse, thereby contributing to a healthier online ecosystem. The effectiveness of this system relies on the collective participation of the user base in identifying and reporting violations.
The subsequent sections will provide detailed instructions on how to initiate this process, outlining the steps involved in effectively submitting a report for review by Reddit’s administrative team. Guidance will also be provided on what types of violations warrant such action, and how to compile sufficient evidence to support the report. The aim is to equip individuals with the knowledge necessary to utilize this tool effectively and contribute to the overall well-being of the Reddit platform.
1. Identify Violation
The initial and arguably most critical step in reporting a subreddit is the accurate identification of a violation of Reddit’s content policy. The success of the reporting process hinges on this determination. Without a clear and demonstrable breach of the platform’s guidelines, a report is unlikely to result in administrative action. This phase requires a thorough understanding of Reddit’s policies, which encompass a wide range of prohibited behaviors, including but not limited to: harassment, hate speech, doxxing, inciting violence, and illegal activity. Consider, for example, a subreddit dedicated to sharing personally identifiable information of individuals without their consent; this clearly violates Reddit’s policy against doxxing and warrants a report. Conversely, a subreddit that expresses unpopular opinions, while potentially disagreeable, does not inherently constitute a violation unless it crosses the line into direct threats, harassment, or targeted abuse.
Identifying the violation serves as the foundation upon which the entire reporting process is built. It dictates the specific category under which the report is filed and shapes the subsequent explanation and evidence provided. A misidentified violation can lead to a dismissal of the report, even if the underlying content is problematic. For instance, attempting to report a subreddit for “hate speech” when the content in question is simply offensive or inflammatory, but not directed at a protected group, weakens the report’s credibility and reduces the likelihood of a favorable outcome. Furthermore, accurately identifying the violation informs the type of evidence that needs to be gathered to support the claim. Evidence supporting a claim of “harassment” will differ significantly from that required for “illegal activity”.
In summary, identifying a violation is paramount to effectively reporting a subreddit. This stage requires careful examination of the content in question, a solid grasp of Reddit’s content policy, and a clear articulation of how the content breaches those policies. A well-defined and supported identification of the violation increases the likelihood of the report being taken seriously and acted upon by Reddit’s administrative team. Failure to properly identify the violation renders the entire reporting process ineffective, ultimately undermining the goal of maintaining a safe and respectful online environment.
2. Gather Evidence
The efficacy of reporting a subreddit hinges significantly on the quality and comprehensiveness of evidence submitted to Reddit’s administrators. The act of gathering evidence directly influences the outcome of the report. Insufficient or weak evidence renders a report less credible, potentially leading to its dismissal. Conversely, compelling evidence substantially increases the likelihood of administrative action, resulting in the removal of violating content or the moderation, or even banning, of the reported subreddit. For instance, simply stating that a subreddit promotes hate speech is less effective than providing specific examples of posts or comments containing hateful language, along with timestamps and URLs.
The type of evidence required varies depending on the alleged violation. Reports of harassment necessitate screenshots of harassing messages or comments, demonstrating a pattern of targeted abuse. Reports of inciting violence require capturing posts that explicitly call for harm against individuals or groups. Copyright infringement reports necessitate documentation proving ownership of the copyrighted material and evidence of its unauthorized use within the subreddit. The evidence should be presented in a clear, organized manner, allowing administrators to easily assess the validity of the claim. Evidence can include screenshots, direct links to specific posts or comments, archived versions of deleted content, and documentation supporting claims of intellectual property infringement.
In conclusion, evidence gathering is an indispensable component of reporting a subreddit effectively. It transforms unsubstantiated claims into verifiable facts, thereby strengthening the report and increasing the chances of administrative action. The effort invested in gathering comprehensive and well-organized evidence directly correlates to the success of the reporting process, ultimately contributing to a safer and more respectful online environment. Failure to provide adequate evidence diminishes the report’s credibility and reduces the likelihood of achieving the desired outcome.
3. Locate Report Button
The ability to effectively initiate the reporting process on Reddit relies fundamentally on the user’s capacity to locate the designated reporting mechanism. The presence and accessibility of the “report button” directly dictates the practicability of “how to report a subreddit.” Without identifying this function, the capacity to alert Reddit administrators to content policy violations is effectively nullified. Consider, for instance, a situation where a user witnesses a subreddit promoting violent extremism. Despite recognizing the severe breach of platform rules, the user remains unable to report the community if the “report button” remains elusive, either due to its design or placement. Thus, the action of finding this button functions as a necessary precursor to fulfilling “how to report a subreddit.”
The practical significance of understanding the location of this button is evident in fostering a safe and regulated environment. A user familiar with the Reddit interface, particularly concerning its reporting functionality, is empowered to promptly address potential violations, thereby contributing to community moderation. This empowerment translates into tangible outcomes, such as the swift removal of harmful content or the imposition of restrictions on communities violating platform rules. Conversely, obscurity in the button’s location can lead to delayed reporting, allowing harmful content to proliferate and potentially affect a larger user base before administrative intervention. In cases involving urgent matters, such as threats of violence, the speed of reporting is crucial, further emphasizing the need for clear and intuitive access to the reporting feature.
In summary, the “report button” serves as the literal gateway to initiate the process of “how to report a subreddit.” Its location, accessibility, and ease of use are directly proportional to the effectiveness of community moderation. Obscuring the “report button” effectively negates a user’s ability to report violations, while a readily accessible button facilitates prompt action, ultimately supporting a healthier online environment on Reddit. The efficient operation of this critical feature relies on continuous monitoring and refinement of the user interface to ensure that any user, regardless of their platform familiarity, can promptly access and utilize the reporting mechanism.
4. Select Appropriate Category
The correct categorization of a report is paramount to the effective execution of “how to report a subreddit.” The selection dictates the subsequent routing of the report to the appropriate administrative team, ensuring that specialists equipped to assess the specific type of violation review the submission. A miscategorized report can lead to delays in processing or, worse, dismissal due to a perceived lack of relevance.
-
Expediting Review Process
Selecting the precise category ensures the report reaches administrators trained to address that specific violation. For example, a report of copyright infringement directed to the “harassment” team would be significantly delayed, as those administrators lack the expertise to evaluate copyright claims. Proper categorization streamlines the review, leading to faster resolution.
-
Providing Contextual Information
Each category within the reporting system prompts users to provide specific information relevant to the alleged violation. Selecting “hate speech,” for instance, might require detailing the targeted group and the nature of the discriminatory language used. This category-specific prompting ensures the administrators receive the information required to assess the validity of the report.
-
Accurate Policy Application
Reddit’s content policy is multifaceted, encompassing various forms of prohibited conduct. The categorization process directly links the report to the specific policy being violated. For instance, a report of doxxing should be categorized under “revealing personal information,” thus invoking the policy against sharing private details without consent. This accurate application of policy ensures consistent enforcement across the platform.
-
Minimizing False Positives
A well-defined categorization system helps reduce the incidence of false reports. By requiring users to specifically identify the violation, the system discourages frivolous or unsubstantiated claims. This reduces the burden on administrators and prevents legitimate content from being unfairly targeted. The need to select a category forces a user to consider the specific policy being breached, promoting more thoughtful and accurate reporting.
In essence, the “Select Appropriate Category” step is not merely a perfunctory action; it is a crucial filter that directs the report to the correct channels, ensures administrators receive relevant information, and promotes consistent application of Reddit’s content policy. Its proper execution is integral to the effective function of “how to report a subreddit” and contributes significantly to maintaining a safe and respectful online environment.
5. Provide Detailed Explanation
The provision of a comprehensive and lucid explanation constitutes a pivotal element in the procedure governing “how to report a subreddit.” The quality and detail within this explanation directly influence the administrator’s capacity to grasp the nature and severity of the alleged violation, thereby impacting the report’s outcome. A vague or insufficient explanation reduces the likelihood of administrative action, while a detailed and well-articulated account significantly strengthens the claim.
-
Contextualizing the Violation
A detailed explanation provides the necessary context for understanding the reported content. This includes clarifying the specific circumstances surrounding the violation, identifying the individuals or groups affected, and outlining the potential impact of the content on the Reddit community. For example, in a report of harassment, the explanation should detail the pattern of abusive behavior, the specific targeting of the victim, and the psychological distress caused by the harassment. This contextualization helps administrators understand the full gravity of the situation.
-
Linking Evidence to Policy Violation
The explanation serves to directly connect the provided evidence to the specific violation of Reddit’s content policy. It articulates how the screenshots, links, or other forms of evidence demonstrate a breach of the platform’s guidelines. Consider a report of inciting violence; the explanation should explicitly state which phrases or statements constitute a call to action, and how those statements violate the policy against promoting harm. This direct linkage ensures administrators understand the evidentiary basis for the report.
-
Addressing Potential Ambiguity
Ambiguity in online communication can often obscure the intent or meaning of a particular post or comment. The explanation provides an opportunity to address potential ambiguity by clarifying the underlying message or motivation behind the content. For example, if a post appears to contain veiled threats, the explanation can elaborate on the potential meaning of those threats based on contextual clues or prior interactions. This clarification helps administrators interpret the content accurately and avoid misinterpreting the message.
-
Highlighting Relevant Policy Sections
A well-structured explanation explicitly references the specific sections of Reddit’s content policy that are being violated. This demonstrates a clear understanding of the platform’s rules and provides administrators with a direct reference point for their evaluation. For instance, in a report of doxxing, the explanation should cite the policy against revealing personal information without consent, and clearly state which pieces of information are being shared in violation of that policy. This targeted reference to relevant policy sections strengthens the report’s credibility.
In conclusion, the “Provide Detailed Explanation” step is not merely a formality; it is an integral component of “how to report a subreddit” that significantly enhances the report’s chances of success. By contextualizing the violation, linking evidence to policy, addressing ambiguity, and highlighting relevant policy sections, the explanation provides administrators with the information required to make an informed and accurate decision. A detailed and well-written explanation demonstrates a serious commitment to maintaining community standards and contributes to a safer and more respectful online environment.
6. Submit the Report
The culmination of the process pertaining to “how to report a subreddit” rests on the action of formally submitting the report. This act constitutes the definitive step in initiating administrative review of alleged content policy violations. The effectiveness of all preceding actions, including identifying the violation, gathering evidence, selecting the appropriate category, and providing a detailed explanation, becomes consequential only upon successful completion of the submission process. Failure to submit the report renders all prior efforts futile, allowing the potentially harmful content to persist unchecked.
The practical implication of understanding the “Submit the Report” stage lies in ensuring that the culmination of preparatory actions translates into tangible outcomes. Consider, for instance, a situation where a user meticulously documents a series of harassing posts within a subreddit, accurately categorizes the violation, and composes a comprehensive explanation. However, if the user fails to complete the final step of submitting the report, the administrative team remains unaware of the violation, and the harassment continues unabated. Conversely, successful submission activates the review process, potentially leading to the removal of the violating content and the implementation of corrective measures against the offending subreddit. The timely and accurate submission, therefore, is critical for enforcing Reddit’s content policies and maintaining a safe online environment. The user must also be wary of error messages and ensure proper submission verification as potential roadblocks.
In summary, “Submit the Report” represents the crucial nexus between identifying a violation and initiating corrective action. The importance of understanding this step lies in its direct influence on the actual enforcement of community standards. Effective completion of the submission process allows the comprehensive body of evidence and explanations to be formally considered, driving resolution and contributing to a safer Reddit experience. Challenges might involve technical difficulties during submission, highlighting the necessity of ensuring stable internet connections and familiarity with the reporting interface. In conclusion, submitting a report validates all prior steps and initiates the process to improve the platform’s compliance with its own community standards.
7. Await Administrator Review
The phase of “await administrator review” constitutes a critical juncture within the framework of “how to report a subreddit.” It represents the period following the submission of a report and preceding any definitive action taken by Reddit’s administrative personnel. Its significance resides in the inherent uncertainty and the dependence on external evaluation that characterize this stage.
-
Time Sensitivity and Volatility
The period of awaiting administrator review is often characterized by its temporal nature and potential for volatility. The duration of this period can vary significantly, contingent upon factors such as the complexity of the report, the volume of submissions awaiting review, and the availability of administrative resources. During this time, the reported content may remain accessible to other users, potentially exacerbating the harm or offense caused by the alleged violation. Consider, for example, a report of harassment; while awaiting review, the harassing content remains visible, causing ongoing distress to the victim and potentially encouraging further abusive behavior. The volatility arises from the potential for the content to be further disseminated, altered, or removed by the offending party before administrative action is taken.
-
Dependence on Platform Resources
The outcome of “how to report a subreddit” hinges entirely upon the resources allocated by the Reddit platform to the review process. These resources encompass both human personnel and technological infrastructure. A lack of sufficient administrative staff can lead to prolonged review times and a backlog of unprocessed reports, effectively negating the efforts of users who have submitted reports. Similarly, inadequate technological tools for identifying and analyzing violating content can hinder the accuracy and efficiency of the review process. For instance, if Reddit’s algorithms are unable to effectively detect hate speech, reports of such violations may be overlooked or dismissed due to insufficient evidence, even when the content is demonstrably harmful. The reliance on platform resources underscores the importance of Reddit’s commitment to investing in and maintaining a robust administrative infrastructure.
-
Impact on User Perception and Trust
The user’s experience during the “await administrator review” phase profoundly impacts their perception of the platform’s commitment to safety and their overall trust in the reporting system. Extended review times or perceived inconsistencies in administrative decisions can erode user confidence and discourage future reporting. If a user consistently submits reports that are either ignored or dismissed without adequate explanation, they may conclude that the reporting system is ineffective and cease participating in the moderation process. Conversely, prompt and transparent responses to reports can foster a sense of community involvement and encourage users to actively contribute to maintaining a safe online environment. The perceived responsiveness and fairness of the administrative review process are, therefore, critical factors in shaping user attitudes and behaviors.
-
Potential for Misinterpretation and Bias
The administrator’s interpretation of the reported content is inherently subjective and susceptible to potential biases. Factors such as cultural background, personal beliefs, and prior experiences can influence the administrator’s assessment of whether a particular post or comment violates Reddit’s content policy. The complexity of online communication, characterized by sarcasm, irony, and coded language, further complicates the interpretation process. For example, a seemingly innocuous statement may, in fact, be a subtle form of harassment or discrimination, requiring contextual knowledge to fully understand its intended meaning. To mitigate the risk of misinterpretation and bias, Reddit must implement comprehensive training programs for its administrators, emphasizing cultural sensitivity, critical thinking skills, and adherence to clearly defined content policy guidelines.
In essence, the “await administrator review” phase highlights the inherent limitations and complexities of relying on human judgment within an automated system. This phase necessitates that a report follows protocol to have it be effectively submitted into the system. Furthermore, the reliability depends on the platform’s commitment to uphold and execute these administrative and objective judgment.
8. Monitor for Outcome
The aspect of monitoring the outcome directly relates to the overall effectiveness of “how to report a subreddit.” The subsequent actions taken, or lack thereof, by platform administrators influence future engagement with the reporting system. This step extends beyond simply submitting a report; it involves observing the consequences of that submission and understanding the response of the platform.
-
Assessing Administrative Action
Monitoring allows a user to determine whether administrators acted on the report and, if so, the nature of the action. This may involve observing the removal of content, moderation of the reported subreddit, or a notification from Reddit regarding the decision. For instance, if a report concerned hate speech, monitoring would involve checking if the offending comments were deleted or if the user responsible received a ban. The absence of visible action suggests a potential failure in the reporting process or a disagreement with the user’s assessment of the violation.
-
Evaluating Report Accuracy
Observing the outcome provides a feedback loop, enabling users to assess the accuracy of their initial assessment of the violation. If a report is consistently rejected despite perceived violations, it may indicate a misunderstanding of Reddit’s content policies. Conversely, consistently successful reports reinforce the user’s understanding and ability to identify policy breaches. For example, if a report based on a specific interpretation of a rule is rejected, the user can refine their understanding of that rule and improve the accuracy of future reports.
-
Determining System Efficacy
Monitoring the outcome across multiple reports provides insight into the overall efficacy of Reddit’s reporting system. A pattern of inconsistent or delayed responses suggests systemic issues, such as understaffing or flawed algorithms. Conversely, consistently prompt and appropriate responses indicate a well-functioning system. For example, a user might track the response times and outcomes of multiple reports over several months to evaluate the reliability of the platform’s moderation processes.
-
Informing Future Reporting Strategies
The accumulated experience from monitoring outcomes informs future reporting strategies. Understanding what types of violations are consistently addressed, and how quickly, allows users to prioritize their reporting efforts. It also informs the way evidence is gathered and presented to maximize the likelihood of administrative action. For example, if reports with screenshots are more likely to succeed, a user would prioritize including visual evidence in future submissions.
These facets collectively underscore the importance of monitoring as an integral component of “how to report a subreddit.” This engagement provides crucial feedback on the effectiveness of the reporting process, shapes future strategies, and contributes to the overall improvement of platform moderation. By actively observing the consequences of their actions, users contribute to a more transparent and accountable online environment.
9. Understand Appeals Process
Comprehending the appeals process is a vital, albeit often overlooked, component of effectively employing “how to report a subreddit.” While the initial report represents the primary mechanism for flagging content violations, the appeals process provides a crucial secondary avenue for addressing perceived errors or inconsistencies in administrative decisions. Its understanding influences the long-term impact of the reporting system.
-
Rectifying Administrative Errors
The appeals process serves as a safeguard against potential administrative errors. Reddit administrators, like any human reviewers, are fallible and may occasionally misinterpret content or misapply content policies. An appeals mechanism allows users to contest decisions they believe were made in error, presenting additional evidence or arguments to support their initial claim. For example, if a report of harassment is dismissed due to a misunderstanding of the context, an appeal allows the user to provide further clarification and potentially overturn the initial decision.
-
Ensuring Consistent Policy Enforcement
The availability of an appeals process contributes to more consistent enforcement of Reddit’s content policies. By providing a mechanism for challenging perceived inconsistencies in administrative decisions, the appeals process helps to identify and correct systemic biases or ambiguities in policy interpretation. If a particular type of content is consistently treated differently by different administrators, the appeals process can highlight these discrepancies and prompt a more uniform application of the rules. This leads to a more equitable and predictable moderation environment.
-
Promoting Transparency and Accountability
A well-defined and accessible appeals process promotes greater transparency and accountability within the Reddit moderation system. It compels administrators to justify their decisions and to provide reasoned explanations for rejecting reports. This increased accountability can deter arbitrary or capricious decision-making and foster a greater sense of trust among users. When users know that they have recourse to challenge administrative decisions, they are more likely to view the reporting system as fair and impartial.
-
Informing Policy Development and Refinement
The appeals process provides valuable feedback that can inform the ongoing development and refinement of Reddit’s content policies. By analyzing the types of appeals that are frequently submitted and the reasons for overturning initial decisions, administrators can identify areas where policies are unclear, ambiguous, or inadequate. This feedback can then be used to revise and update the policies to better address emerging forms of online abuse and harassment. The appeals process, therefore, serves as a crucial source of data for improving the overall effectiveness of Reddit’s content moderation efforts.
Effectively navigating “how to report a subreddit” requires a holistic understanding that extends beyond the initial reporting stage. The appeals process, therefore, acts as a secondary method for influencing community behavior and ensuring adherence to established guidelines, ultimately contributing to a more robust and fair moderation system. By understanding and utilizing the appeals mechanism, users are empowered to challenge decisions they perceive as unjust, thus contributing to the ongoing evolution of Reddit’s content moderation policies and practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the process of reporting subreddits, providing clarity on aspects often misunderstood. The information presented aims to clarify Reddit’s reporting mechanisms, empowering individuals to contribute to a safer and more respectful platform environment.
Question 1: What specific content policy violations warrant reporting a subreddit?
A subreddit should be reported if it demonstrably violates Reddit’s content policy. This includes, but is not limited to, subreddits promoting violence, engaging in harassment, facilitating illegal activities, spreading misinformation that causes harm, or exhibiting hate speech directed at protected groups.
Question 2: What evidence is considered sufficient when reporting a subreddit?
Sufficient evidence typically includes screenshots of violating posts or comments, links to specific instances of policy breaches, and contextual information clarifying the nature of the violation. The evidence must be directly relevant to the alleged policy violation and presented in a clear, organized manner.
Question 3: How long does the administrative review process typically take?
The duration of the administrative review process varies significantly, depending on factors such as the complexity of the report, the volume of reports awaiting review, and the availability of administrative resources. It is advisable to allow a reasonable timeframe for review before expecting a response.
Question 4: What recourse exists if a report is dismissed despite a perceived violation?
Reddit provides an appeals process for contesting administrative decisions. If a report is dismissed and a user believes an error occurred, an appeal can be submitted, providing additional evidence or clarification to support the original claim.
Question 5: Does reporting a subreddit guarantee its immediate removal?
Reporting a subreddit does not guarantee its immediate removal. Administrative action is contingent upon a thorough review of the evidence and a determination that a violation of Reddit’s content policy has occurred. Submitting a report initiates the review process, but the final decision rests with the administrators.
Question 6: What factors influence the prioritization of reports submitted to Reddit?
The prioritization of reports is influenced by several factors, including the severity of the alleged violation, the potential for imminent harm, and the credibility of the evidence provided. Reports involving threats of violence or illegal activity are typically prioritized over less urgent concerns.
These FAQs provide a foundation for understanding the subreddit reporting process. Adherence to these guidelines contributes to a more effective reporting strategy and supports Reddit’s broader efforts to maintain a safe and respectful online community.
The subsequent section will provide strategies for effective community participation while using Reddit in a safe manner.
Effective Subreddit Reporting
The following guidelines are designed to enhance the effectiveness of reporting subreddits that violate platform policies. Adherence to these tips increases the likelihood of appropriate administrative action.
Tip 1: Thoroughly Review Reddit’s Content Policy: A comprehensive understanding of Reddit’s content policy is paramount. Familiarize oneself with the specific guidelines pertaining to harassment, hate speech, violence, and illegal activities. Knowing these policies allows for accurate identification of violations.
Tip 2: Document Clear and Compelling Evidence: Gather sufficient evidence to support the claim. Screenshots, archived links, and detailed descriptions are essential. Ensure that the evidence directly relates to the alleged violation and is presented in a clear, organized manner. Vague or unsubstantiated claims are less likely to be acted upon.
Tip 3: Provide Contextual Information: Explain the context surrounding the alleged violation. Clarify the specific circumstances, the individuals or groups affected, and the potential impact of the content. Contextual information helps administrators understand the severity of the situation.
Tip 4: Select the Most Appropriate Reporting Category: Choosing the correct reporting category is critical. Ensure that the selected category accurately reflects the nature of the violation. Miscategorization can lead to delays or dismissal of the report.
Tip 5: Submit Reports Promptly: Report potential violations as soon as they are discovered. Delaying the report may allow the violating content to proliferate and potentially cause further harm. Prompt action demonstrates a commitment to maintaining community standards.
Tip 6: Utilize the Appeals Process Judiciously: If a report is dismissed despite perceived violations, utilize the appeals process. However, do so judiciously and only when there is a legitimate basis for challenging the administrative decision. Present additional evidence or arguments to support the initial claim.
Tip 7: Maintain a Professional Tone: When submitting reports or appeals, maintain a professional and respectful tone. Avoid inflammatory language or personal attacks. A calm and objective presentation of the facts is more likely to be well-received.
These strategies collectively enhance the likelihood of successful reporting outcomes. Consistent application of these tips contributes to a safer and more respectful environment. By actively engaging in responsible reporting practices, the user fosters a more ethical Reddit community.
The subsequent section presents a conclusion, summarizing the core principles discussed throughout this resource.
Conclusion
The comprehensive exploration of “how to report a subreddit” has illuminated a multifaceted process. From identifying policy violations and gathering compelling evidence to navigating the appeals mechanism, each step contributes significantly to fostering a safer online environment. The consistent application of these principles, coupled with a thorough understanding of Reddit’s content policy, empowers individuals to actively participate in community moderation.
The vigilance and responsible reporting demonstrated by users are instrumental in upholding community standards. Active engagement with the reporting system not only addresses immediate violations but also contributes to the ongoing refinement and enforcement of platform policies. The future of Reddit as a thriving online community hinges on the collective commitment to identifying and reporting content that undermines its fundamental principles.
