Muggles?

[+simpjkee]

I understand that muggles are people who don't know about geocaching, but I wonder about what most people consider to be appropriate behavior around muggles. Personally I like geocaching because it gives me a reason to be out in the community. I find that while out in the community, goecaching gives me oppurtunities to interact socially with people that otherwise I would never have socialized with. I think this is directed more at American society (especially in the lonely suburbs of Arizona) where I think social interaction is seriously lacking. Sure I've run in to a few muggles, security guards and mommies, who think I'm either planting a bomb or trying to find my weed stash, but for every one of them I have met twice as many people who end up chatting it up with me, about geocaching or otherwise... Many cache placers ask for you to use "stealth" and "caution" when searching for their cache in order to avoid interaction with muggles. I tend to think that using "stealth" really depends more on the muggle you are using "stealth" around.

 

IMO. In some cases, stealth should be used. In most cases though, stealth really just limits social interaction and hampers the greater good of society.

 

I'm going to reference CITO events, but it seems ironic that, from what I have gathered from my short life geocaching, the message conveyed is dont talk to anyone or let anyone see you, but pick up litter cuz its good for the world Of course picking up litter is hugely important, but I think social interaction is hugely important as well, maybe more so. At least in the lonely suburbs of Arizona.

 

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"? I hope it's not, but I'm wondering what the experienced geocachers, who've been here a lot longer than I, would have to say about this.

 

 

 

BTW, I'm sure it's shocking, but I have a BA in Psychology. So here's me looking in to the psychological and sociological aspects of geocaching and it's effect on society.

Edited June 13, 2007 by simpjkee

[+briansnat]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

No you aren't violating any code, but you should be careful when speaking with non geocachers about the sport. They are the reason the overwhelming majority of caches go missing. It's precisely why we try to

be stealthy when in public areas.

 

Some don't appreciate strangers being drawn to their neighborhood, some see geocaching as an environmental scourge and some are just jerks who like spoiling other's fun.

 

So if you run into non geocachers who are curious about your activity, you have to make a snap judgment. Would telling this person what you are doing endanger the cache? If the person seems angered by your presence, if it's a group of teens or someone else who your gut tells you might be a danger to the cache, it's best to not engage them about geocaching. If it's a mom and her kids, perhaps it's OK.

 

Of course you can be wrong. Those teens might be converts to the sport. That mom may decided that a cache in the neighborhood park is a bad thing, so that is where your gut instinct comes in.

 

I'd say overall, for the sake of the longevity of the caches you are seeking, it's best to not be observed, or volunteer much about what you are doing. If you are caught red handed, then some explanation might be necessary.

[+simpjkee]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

I'd say overall, for the sake of the longevity of the caches you are seeking, it's best to not be observed, or volunteer much about what you are doing. If you are caught red handed, then some explanation might be necessary.

 

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

[+briansnat]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

I'd say overall, for the sake of the longevity of the caches you are seeking, it's best to not be observed, or volunteer much about what you are doing. If you are caught red handed, then some explanation might be necessary.

 

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

 

Depends on whether or not you own that cache and spent the time and money to place it.

 

Are social interaction and cache longevity mutually exclusive? There is nothing keeping you

from being careful when looking for the cache, then chatting up everybody you see in the park afterward.

If you want to be approached by strangers, wear a silly hat.

[+rdaines]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

If you are caught red handed, then some explanation might be necessary.

 

Big snip there but I was once observed by a couple of male youths (or youts if you like "My cousin Vinny) in a car. I saw them watching us trying to find this micro which we did find. When leaving I walked by the car they were sitting in and took a quick look. Dressed in leather and bandannas I considered myself lucky that we were leaving without any interaction. As I was walking away I suddenly changed my mind , turned and approached the car. The semi tinted window slowly went down. I asked, politely, if they wanted to know what we were doing. They quickly answered "no", with a tone that hinted that what was my business was mine. Not being completely happy with that answer I told them anyway. When I was done they understood that it was a game and that other people were coming to the park to find the cache. The youths drove away before we got back to our car The cache has not gone missing so I guess they were not muggles.

[+simplyred]

We were all muggles at one time, that being said, it's a judgment call. I think if the people are friendly and are genuinely interested, I'll explain the game, but if they're annoying or rude, they'll get some other story.

I think the cache is more important than the socializing, there's many other ways to socialize, if that's what you really want to do. I want to cache, and I want the caches to be out there.

On another note, if everybody knew about caching, it wouldn't be such a great game.

[+ncfinn]

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

 

In this instance definitely the longevity of the caches.

If caching goes away there is no other activity like it to replace it. If the opportunity to socialize at this particular cache goes away, there are other places where I can talk to strangers.

[+simpjkee]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

I'd say overall, for the sake of the longevity of the caches you are seeking, it's best to not be observed, or volunteer much about what you are doing. If you are caught red handed, then some explanation might be necessary.

 

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

 

Depends on whether or not you own that cache and spent the time and money to place it.

 

Are social interaction and cache longevity mutually exclusive? There is nothing keeping you

from being careful when looking for the cache, then chatting up everybody you see in the park afterward.

If you want to be approached by strangers, wear a silly hat.

 

I follow you, BUT if I wear a silly hat then people ask me "why are you wearing a silly hat?" I say whatever and they move on.

 

If they say "what are you looking for?" and I say a geocache they not only converse about it, but also consider partaking in the activity.

 

If im wearing a silly hat and someone asks why, no one is going to want to wear a silly hat once I tell them.

Edited June 13, 2007 by simpjkee

[+simpjkee]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

If you are caught red handed, then some explanation might be necessary.

 

Big snip there but I was once observed by a couple of male youths (or youts if you like "My cousin Vinny) in a car. I saw them watching us trying to find this micro which we did find. When leaving I walked by the car they were sitting in and took a quick look. Dressed in leather and bandannas I considered myself lucky that we were leaving without any interaction. As I was walking away I suddenly changed my mind , turned and approached the car. The semi tinted window slowly went down. I asked, politely, if they wanted to know what we were doing. They quickly answered "no", with a tone that hinted that what was my business was mine. Not being completely happy with that answer I told them anyway. When I was done they understood that it was a game and that other people were coming to the park to find the cache. The youths drove away before we got back to our car The cache has not gone missing so I guess they were not muggles.

 

I would guess that they are muggles who never imagined that, no offense, older men played games and more so that older men were not intimidated to approach them.

 

There are a billion possibilities. They may have been smoking the herb and ready to fight had you said something like "I know what you are doing and I'm calling the cops". Instead you said "I'm playing a game". And that may have totally suprised them. Their next reactin may hae been "we don't need to worry about this person".

 

Which brings me to my point. A lot of unfortunate incidents are based on misunderstandings. Good thing that you were geocaching and in a position to show that the misunderstanding was nothing negative, but instead something completely positive.

[+simpjkee]

We were all muggles at one time, that being said, it's a judgment call. I think if the people are friendly and are genuinely interested, I'll explain the game, but if they're annoying or rude, they'll get some other story.

I think the cache is more important than the socializing, there's many other ways to socialize, if that's what you really want to do. I want to cache, and I want the caches to be out there.

On another note, if everybody knew about caching, it wouldn't be such a great game.

 

Don't worry. There are at least 2 new caches being placed for every cache going down. And when I say "cache going down", I'm including every reason not just because a cacher talked to a muggle and the muggle destroyed the cache.

 

On your second note, I completely agree. But I should warn you. It will not be long before everyone knows about caching. Just take a look at geocaching.com's home page. they have a section in the margin dedicated to all the recent news stories telling everyone, who will read, about the sport.

[+simpjkee]

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

 

In this instance definitely the longevity of the caches.

If caching goes away there is no other activity like it to replace it. If the opportunity to socialize at this particular cache goes away, there are other places where I can talk to strangers.

 

where do you talk to strangers?

[+ncfinn]

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

 

In this instance definitely the longevity of the caches.

If caching goes away there is no other activity like it to replace it. If the opportunity to socialize at this particular cache goes away, there are other places where I can talk to strangers.

 

where do you talk to strangers?

 

I personally have no great desire to talk to strangers, but the original question was asking if it was important to do so.

[vtmtnman]

No you aren't violating any code, but you should be careful when speaking with non geocachers about the sport. They are the reason the overwhelming majority of caches go missing. It's precisely why we try to

be stealthy when in public areas.

I haven't been caching as long as most,but this is one reason why I avoid muggles.That and just having to explain it to them while they get that deer in the headlight glaze over.Don't even want to deal with it.I'm very selective about who I 'fill in' about caching(Unless it's LE or something where it would appear you're being suspicious and they ask what you're doing),for the reason that Brian stated and and if I do tell them it's because I believe they are the type of person that would enjoy the game/sport/hobby.

Edited June 13, 2007 by vtmtnman

[vtmtnman]

I'm also trying to figure out why you have a picture of a man and a woman dropping a child into a bear trap???

[drstan00]

Personally I like geocaching because it gives me a reason to be out in the community. I find that while out in the community, goecaching gives me oppurtunities to interact socially with people that otherwise I would never have socialized with.

 

I agree 100%. I don't really try and hide the fact that I'm holding my GPS unit and obviously looking for something when I'm geocaching. However, when I get near the cache I try and be a little more cautious, for the same reasons that people have mentioned in this thread.

 

I do think you have to pick and choose who you talk to though.

[+TheAlabamaRambler]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

No you aren't violating any code, but you should be careful when speaking with non geocachers about the sport. They are the reason the overwhelming majority of caches go missing. It's precisely why we try to be stealthy when in public areas.

 

If talking to muggles is unethical, then I am one unethical son of a gun! I talk to most everyone I see about the game. I can't tell you how many times I have stopped to talk to folks and ended up taking them on the cache hunt Cops, hikers, hunters, passers-by... and nary a report that a cache was muggled after I did so.

 

Yes, discretion and judgment are a big part, stealth or even avoiding the cache is sometimes called for if muggles are about that don't 'feel' right.

 

Yet we have one infamous evil micro in a park in our capitol city where the bums who sleep on nearby benches offer to show cachers the hide for a dollar! It's been active for years!

 

I have snagged a cache from under a bench with two women sitting on it. Literally walked up and said "Pardon me, ma'am, I need to get something out from under you" and reached under them. They thought it was funny. I explained the game while signing the log, showed it to them and put it back under them. That was at GW3 and the cache is still there.

 

I have grabbed one from under a phone booth while a muggle was on the phone. I was with six other cachers and we waited forever, this guy was long-winded, so I walked over, grabbed the cache and took it back to the group to sign. That was two years ago and I know it's still there, a group of us visited it Saturday.

 

We did a cache at a kids playground Saturday. Kids and parents 20' away. I introduced myself, told them what we were doing (7 of us, men women and kids), we found it, signed it and left, thanking the parents for letting us intrude. It's still there, no reason to believe it won't be.

 

I came across a hunter last year, we talked, I told him about the game, he went with me to find the cache, he's now a geocacher.

 

So, unethical? Quite the opposite! I regularly act as unofficial ambassador and promoter of the game, and reiterate that to my knowledge no cache has been muggled after I showed it to someone (at least not so soon after that the two events could be tied).

 

As to the bolded comments above.

"They are the reason the overwhelming majority of caches go missing. "

If so his experience and belief is the polar opposite of mine. Do the overwhelming majority of caches in fact go missing? Maybe he means something like 'of the relatively few caches that do go missing the overwhelming majority are due to muggles'.

 

"It's precisely why we try to be stealthy when in public areas."

Again I question this. In my experience and opinion cache owners ask for stealth when they do not have permission and don't want to lose the cache!

 

Long answer, sorry, but I believe in promoting the game, not hiding it!

Edited June 13, 2007 by TheAlabamaRambler

[+briansnat]

As to the bolded comments above.

"They are the reason the overwhelming majority of caches go missing. "

If so his experience and belief is the polar opposite of mine. Do the overwhelming majority of caches in fact go missing? Maybe he means something like 'of the relatively few caches that do go missing the overwhelming majority are due to muggles'.

 

Thanks for pointing out my poor sentence construction.

 

"It's precisely why we try to be stealthy when in public areas."

Again I question this. In my experience and opinion cache owners ask for stealth when they do not have permission and don't want to lose the cache!

 

Permission or not, a cache is much more likely to go missing if non geocachers learn about it. That group of mischievous teens or that curmudgeonly neighbor aren't going to give a clam's pato0tie if your cache has permission.

[+TheAlabamaRambler]

Permission or not, a cache is much more likely to go missing if non geocachers learn about it. That group of mischievous teens or that curmudgeonly neighbor aren't going to give a clam's pato0tie if your cache has permission.

 

I will concede that to be true, to a degree.

 

To my recollection I have exposed a cache to a group of kids only three times.

 

Once was my Irondale Park cache at a local ballpark. Some kids came upon me restocking it, so I knew the word would get out. Re-hid the cache in the same place and it was fine for weeks, then it went missing. That actually was a funny story, as I took a local newspaper reporter to it as part of an interview, and it was gone! In a few days I got a "Found it" note, went and looked, and it was back in place, not a trinket missing! It was found repeatedly for a while, then went missing again. Before I could go replace it, it was found! I went back, this time it had a note in it that basically said "My son found this and brought it home, I made him take it back!". It was found regularly for almost a year after that, then went permanently AWOL.

 

Caching with a group in TN one night we came to a cache in a mall parking lot, which we would discover to be a keyholder under a water drain cover. Maybe five cars parked right at the cache site, with six or eight girls and boys sitting on the hoods, one kid was sitting on the drain! We were ten or so cachers in three cars, so we went for coffee to see if they'd leave. No luck. We stood around talking for a bit, watching the kids, they seemed to be normal teens hanging out for fun. So I approached them, told them about the game, told them we needed to find something where they were. They not only were cool with it, they walked around with us, talking about the GPS units, asking about all the ham radio antennas on my car, just great kids. We found the cache under the drain and let the kids sign it as well. We gave two of the more interested kids micros to hide, I don't know if they ever did. We told them where two local caches were and how to find them without a GPS. That cache was retired by the owner a few months later, but the retirement had nothing to do with any muggling... though you know those kids had to have shown others. I have since returned to the other two we told them about with other groups and know them to still be active.

 

While caching with a group in Huntsville AL we came to a cache behind a mall where a group of teens was skateboarding perhaps 40 feet from the hide. We were maybe ten cachers in several vehicles, and we sat and watched them for a bit. We decided to take the chance and found the cache, the boys watching us. I don't remember if any of us talked to the boys other than to wave and say hello. I can't swear that cache is still active, but I know it lasted for many months after that.

 

I know three examples don't mean much overall, but in my experience that's 100% success in that none were muggled after being exposed.

[+Driver Carries Cache]

If someone asks me what I'm doing (and they're not an Officer of the Law) I'll offer up "I'm on a GPS Scavenger Hunt" at which point one of two things will happen... they'll roll their eyes and walk away laughing... or they may have some curiosity. Some are curious about GPS and some say "you mean that geo-thingy I heard/saw/read about" etc. If they're curious, I'd love to introduce them to Geocaching. The one word I try to avoid in my description of what I'm doing is "treasure"... I know some like to refer to it as a "treasure hunt" but that gives the uninitiated the false impression that they're going to find something of great monetary value. That could quickly lead to a cache disappearing.

 

DCC

[+rdaines]

Now that you mention it, the word "scavenger" does sound better to me that "treasure". I'll try to use it in the future.

[+Renegade Knight]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

I'd say overall, for the sake of the longevity of the caches you are seeking, it's best to not be observed, or volunteer much about what you are doing. If you are caught red handed, then some explanation might be necessary.

 

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

 

Each in it's place.

If I want social interaction I hang out with my friends. If I want to meet new people I go meet new people. If I want a cache to last a long time I don't meet new people (other than cachers) while looking for a cache.

 

If you are caught red handed, tell them the truth. Then make a judement. Did you just make a cacher out of a muggle, or is the cache now in harms way? If the latter pull the cache contact the owner and put it back when it's safe. If you haven't found it abort the mission.

[+Miragee]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

No you aren't violating any code, but you should be careful when speaking with non geocachers about the sport. They are the reason the overwhelming majority of caches go missing. It's precisely why we try to

be stealthy when in public areas.

 

<snip>

If I see muggles and they seem to be the "friendly-type," I welcome the opportunity for "social interaction." I would never reveal the location of the cache however, I would only explain what I am doing and refer them to the web site.

 

One time, when I was placing a cache of mine, in an open space area high on the shoulder of a peak, a couple came walking up the normally-deserted trail. We struck up a conversation and after a while, I told them what I was doing. Then, I even showed them my little cache. Although I thought they were trustworthy, they must have told someone else, because that cache went missing.

 

There is no way a muggle could have accidentally stumbled onto the hiding place of that cache.

[+egami]

I generally pull out my .45 pistol and start waving it in the air and shout "Hey all you Muggles...attention please...anyone seen a green ammo can in the vicinity of these shrubs here?".

[+simpjkee]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

If you are caught red handed, then some explanation might be necessary.

 

Big snip there but I was once observed by a couple of male youths (or youts if you like "My cousin Vinny) in a car. I saw them watching us trying to find this micro which we did find. When leaving I walked by the car they were sitting in and took a quick look. Dressed in leather and bandannas I considered myself lucky that we were leaving without any interaction. As I was walking away I suddenly changed my mind , turned and approached the car. The semi tinted window slowly went down. I asked, politely, if they wanted to know what we were doing. They quickly answered "no", with a tone that hinted that what was my business was mine. Not being completely happy with that answer I told them anyway. When I was done they understood that it was a game and that other people were coming to the park to find the cache. The youths drove away before we got back to our car The cache has not gone missing so I guess they were not muggles.

 

uh...uh...2 wut?

[+simpjkee]

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

 

In this instance definitely the longevity of the caches.

If caching goes away there is no other activity like it to replace it. If the opportunity to socialize at this particular cache goes away, there are other places where I can talk to strangers.

 

where do you talk to strangers?

 

I personally have no great desire to talk to strangers, but the original question was asking if it was important to do so.

 

gotcha

[+simpjkee]

I'm also trying to figure out why you have a picture of a man and a woman dropping a child into a bear trap???

 

it's the cover of the "American Idiot" single by Green Day. It fits with the music forums i frequent. when i came here i put it as usual though it doesnt really fit for this site. maybe ill change it.

[+rdaines]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

If you are caught red handed, then some explanation might be necessary.

 

Big snip there but I was once observed by a couple of male youths (or youts if you like "My cousin Vinny) in a car. I saw them watching us trying to find this micro which we did find. When leaving I walked by the car they were sitting in and took a quick look. Dressed in leather and bandannas I considered myself lucky that we were leaving without any interaction. As I was walking away I suddenly changed my mind , turned and approached the car. The semi tinted window slowly went down. I asked, politely, if they wanted to know what we were doing. They quickly answered "no", with a tone that hinted that what was my business was mine. Not being completely happy with that answer I told them anyway. When I was done they understood that it was a game and that other people were coming to the park to find the cache. The youths drove away before we got back to our car The cache has not gone missing so I guess they were not muggles.

 

uh...uh...2 wut?

 

Sorry couldn't resist:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vinny Gambini: It is possible that the two yutes...

Judge Chamberlain Haller: ...Ah, the two what? Uh... uh, what was that word?

Vinny Gambini: Uh... what word?

Judge Chamberlain Haller: Two what?

Vinny Gambini: What?

Judge Chamberlain Haller: Uh... did you say 'yutes'?

Vinny Gambini: Yeah, two yutes.

Judge Chamberlain Haller: What is a yute?

[beat]

Vinny Gambini: Oh, excuse me, your honor...

[exaggerated]

Vinny Gambini: Two YOUTHS.

Edited June 13, 2007 by rdaines

[+simpjkee]

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"?

 

No you aren't violating any code, but you should be careful when speaking with non geocachers about the sport. They are the reason the overwhelming majority of caches go missing. It's precisely why we try to be stealthy when in public areas.

 

Long answer, sorry, but I believe in promoting the game, not hiding it!

 

you are the "alabamarambler"

[+simpjkee]

If someone asks me what I'm doing (and they're not an Officer of the Law) I'll offer up "I'm on a GPS Scavenger Hunt" at which point one of two things will happen... they'll roll their eyes and walk away laughing... or they may have some curiosity. Some are curious about GPS and some say "you mean that geo-thingy I heard/saw/read about" etc. If they're curious, I'd love to introduce them to Geocaching. The one word I try to avoid in my description of what I'm doing is "treasure"... I know some like to refer to it as a "treasure hunt" but that gives the uninitiated the false impression that they're going to find something of great monetary value. That could quickly lead to a cache disappearing.

 

DCC

 

great post. thanks. i'll remember this

[+simpjkee]

I generally pull out my .45 pistol and start waving it in the air and shout "Hey all you Muggles...attention please...anyone seen a green ammo can in the vicinity of these shrubs here?".

 

LOL!!! I need to go buy a gun!

[+TheAlabamaRambler]

Oh! I DO have a muggle story!

 

At an event in north Alabama we broke up into five groups of six cachers to hunt caches along a set of trails on a mountain.

 

While one group was at a TB Hotel beside the trail a teen walked by. One of the cachers said something to the effect of "This cache is history" and everyone had a laugh.

 

Sure enough by the time the next group of cachers arrived the kid had come back and stolen the cache!

 

Fortunately he dumped all of the TBs out on the ground.

[vtmtnman]

I'm also trying to figure out why you have a picture of a man and a woman dropping a child into a bear trap???

 

it's the cover of the "American Idiot" single by Green Day. It fits with the music forums i frequent. when i came here i put it as usual though it doesnt really fit for this site. maybe ill change it.

Just a good natured stab is all.If it works for you,go with it.

[vtmtnman]

I generally pull out my .45 pistol and start waving it in the air and shout "Hey all you Muggles...attention please...anyone seen a green ammo can in the vicinity of these shrubs here?".

Ahh so you went to that class as well I see.

Edited June 14, 2007 by vtmtnman

[+Team GeoBlast]

I understand that muggles are people who don't know about geocaching, but I wonder about what most people consider to be appropriate behavior around muggles. Personally I like geocaching because it gives me a reason to be out in the community. I find that while out in the community, goecaching gives me oppurtunities to interact socially with people that otherwise I would never have socialized with. I think this is directed more at American society (especially in the lonely suburbs of Arizona) where I think social interaction is seriously lacking. Sure I've run in to a few muggles, security guards and mommies, who think I'm either planting a bomb or trying to find my weed stash, but for every one of them I have met twice as many people who end up chatting it up with me, about geocaching or otherwise... Many cache placers ask for you to use "stealth" and "caution" when searching for their cache in order to avoid interaction with muggles. I tend to think that using "stealth" really depends more on the muggle you are using "stealth" around.

 

IMO. In some cases, stealth should be used. In most cases though, stealth really just limits social interaction and hampers the greater good of society.

 

I'm going to reference CITO events, but it seems ironic that, from what I have gathered from my short life geocaching, the message conveyed is dont talk to anyone or let anyone see you, but pick up litter cuz its good for the world Of course picking up litter is hugely important, but I think social interaction is hugely important as well, maybe more so. At least in the lonely suburbs of Arizona.

 

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"? I hope it's not, but I'm wondering what the experienced geocachers, who've been here a lot longer than I, would have to say about this.

 

BTW, I'm sure it's shocking, but I have a BA in Psychology. So here's me looking in to the psychological and sociological aspects of geocaching and it's effect on society.

 

That's interesting, I have heard so many reasons as to why people love Geocaching but I have never heard social interaction with non-geocachers as a reason. I think it is great to introduce people to the game but you need to keep in mind that a certain percentage are a) not going to be interested at all and are going disagree with the basic premise of hiding something in nature that does not belong there.

 

Assuming that you are able identify type a and b before you get so far into your description where you are revealing the location of a cache (that you do not own), I see no problems with talking to people.

 

Later in this thread you mention that pretty soon everyone is going to know about Geocaching because of the increased media exposure. You are assuming here that everyone wants to know about Geocaching if they had an opportunity. I think there's a healthy percentage of the population that really could care less about it and therefore all the media exposure in the world will not make a difference.

[nonaeroterraqueous]

IMO. In some cases, stealth should be used. In most cases though, stealth really just limits social interaction and hampers the greater good of society.

 

Social interaction (chatting) works toward the greater good of society? I've never considered that. I don't know if I agree, but I'll consider it.

 

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

 

Cache longevity, for certain. If you want to interact with muggles, then go to a bar. If you want to interact with geocachers, then it would probably be good to avoid getting their caches muggled. Can you imagine what my social interaction would be like if I were in the habit of spilling other patrons' beers whenever I went to a bar?

 

Don't worry. There are at least 2 new caches being placed for every cache going down. And when I say "cache going down", I'm including every reason not just because a cacher talked to a muggle and the muggle destroyed the cache.

 

Stay away from my caches. I don't care that two other cachers are placing their own while mine is being muggled. That's not a consolation.

 

where do you talk to strangers?

 

On the forums, I suppose. Otherwise, I generally try to avoid it.

[+simpjkee]

I understand that muggles are people who don't know about geocaching, but I wonder about what most people consider to be appropriate behavior around muggles. Personally I like geocaching because it gives me a reason to be out in the community. I find that while out in the community, goecaching gives me oppurtunities to interact socially with people that otherwise I would never have socialized with. I think this is directed more at American society (especially in the lonely suburbs of Arizona) where I think social interaction is seriously lacking. Sure I've run in to a few muggles, security guards and mommies, who think I'm either planting a bomb or trying to find my weed stash, but for every one of them I have met twice as many people who end up chatting it up with me, about geocaching or otherwise... Many cache placers ask for you to use "stealth" and "caution" when searching for their cache in order to avoid interaction with muggles. I tend to think that using "stealth" really depends more on the muggle you are using "stealth" around.

 

IMO. In some cases, stealth should be used. In most cases though, stealth really just limits social interaction and hampers the greater good of society.

 

I'm going to reference CITO events, but it seems ironic that, from what I have gathered from my short life geocaching, the message conveyed is dont talk to anyone or let anyone see you, but pick up litter cuz its good for the world Of course picking up litter is hugely important, but I think social interaction is hugely important as well, maybe more so. At least in the lonely suburbs of Arizona.

 

I guess I'm asking. If I talk to muggles, is that against the "geocaching code of ethics"? I hope it's not, but I'm wondering what the experienced geocachers, who've been here a lot longer than I, would have to say about this.

 

BTW, I'm sure it's shocking, but I have a BA in Psychology. So here's me looking in to the psychological and sociological aspects of geocaching and it's effect on society.

 

Later in this thread you mention that pretty soon everyone is going to know about Geocaching because of the increased media exposure. You are assuming here that everyone wants to know about Geocaching if they had an opportunity. I think there's a healthy percentage of the population that really could care less about it and therefore all the media exposure in the world will not make a difference.

 

Not at all. I assume nothing. I think if geocaching became mainstream, a lot of people wouldn't like it and wouldn't want to hear about it. BUT as it becomes more popular the people who are muggles now may think "wow that sounds like fun", take part in it, and then add to the popularity.

 

Some people I think would even be anti-geocaching. I wouldnt be suprised if someday in the future someone complains that geocachers "keep parking in front of my house" or are "speeding in my neighborhood" or "destroying the landscape in my neighborhoods park" or whatever.

 

I was a huge NASCAR fan when barely anyone knew about NASCAR. I find my experience with NASCAR and geocaching to be similar. People have said the exact same thing you are saying about geocaching to me about nascar. Today there is definately a healthy percentage of people who really could care less about it, but the more exposure nascar gets the more fans it attracts.

 

And media exposure is just one outlet to support geocaching's growing popularity. I think Word of mouth would be it's biggest form of exposure.

 

Anyone I'm not sure why you think I thought people would want to know about geocaching if they had the chance. I do think though that if/when geocaching becomes mainstream, people will learn about it wether they want to or not.

[+simpjkee]

IMO. In some cases, stealth should be used. In most cases though, stealth really just limits social interaction and hampers the greater good of society.

 

Social interaction (chatting) works toward the greater good of society? I've never considered that. I don't know if I agree, but I'll consider it.

 

whats better? longevity of the caches or social interaction?

 

Cache longevity, for certain. If you want to interact with muggles, then go to a bar. If you want to interact with geocachers, then it would probably be good to avoid getting their caches muggled. Can you imagine what my social interaction would be like if I were in the habit of spilling other patrons' beers whenever I went to a bar?

 

Don't worry. There are at least 2 new caches being placed for every cache going down. And when I say "cache going down", I'm including every reason not just because a cacher talked to a muggle and the muggle destroyed the cache.

 

Stay away from my caches. I don't care that two other cachers are placing their own while mine is being muggled. That's not a consolation.

 

where do you talk to strangers?

 

On the forums, I suppose. Otherwise, I generally try to avoid it.

 

I'm not that handy with quotes so I'll number my responses.

 

1. I think interacting socially with people in your community contributes to the greater good of society. Thanks for considering it.

 

2. I would go to a bar and interact with muggles but I'm trying to save enough money to pay for the premium membership

 

3. Fair enough. I understand. I think I may underestimate the connection a placer will have with their cache. I haven't placed a cache yet, but when I do I don't think 2 new caches being placed would console me from losing my cache. I would prolly just replace it though. At the same time, if my cache got muggled, I think I would get over it and not tell people to not seek my caches. As far as I know, if you publish a cache, then any cacher is free to seek it unless it's a members only cache.

 

4. Chatting on the forums is differnet. I'm talking face2face contact. Why do you try to avoid it? The last stranger you avoided could have become a good friend. Why not say "hi"?

[+chuckwagon101]

Voice of Ape Commander in "Planet Of The Apes"............"The only GOOD muggle......is a MUGGLED muggle!" (background cheers of approval!)

[+Stargazer22]

Here's my take:

 

When geocaching, I act like a geocacher. When I'm at a social event, I act like a socializer. When I'm at work, I act like a worker. When I'm fishing, I act like a fisherman. When in Rome.....

 

I have absolutely no problem interacting with anyone and discussing anyting under (or over) the sun.

I have spoken with lots of people about geocaching. Sometimes they look at me like I have lobsters coming out of my ears, sometimes they think it's cool.

 

But when I am searching for a geocache, I feel that I have certain responsibilities to the geocaching community in general and specifically to the hider of the cache I am seeking. I try not to damage the terrain or leave a bigger geo-trail than I found (hard to do with my dimensions! ) If I am in the general neighborhood of the cache, I will talk to anyone, as long as I don't feel that I will endanger the cache. I would feel terrible if I were the person to cause someone's cache to go missing. And it's not only the cache hider, but the general community as well. Others may have been planning to find the cache, and I may cause them to lose their chance to find it, too.

 

Whenever I am at GZ or have the cache in hand, I attempt to be as stealthy as possible for the few minutes it takes to do the logging and trading (if we do any) and hide it back at least as good as I found it. Once I am away from the immediate area, my stealth fog dissipates and I revert back to the gregarious, outgoing person I am.

 

I think it's perfectly natural for a person's demeanor to change, depending on their situation.

Being stealthy while at the cache doesn't mean someone is an introvert. It's just being prudent.

 

I also don't shout "Hi, Jack" to my friend across the airport, even if his name is Jack and it's been a long time since I've seen him!

 

Edited for spelling error.

Edited June 15, 2007 by Stargazer22

[+Team GeoBlast]

Here's my take:

 

When geocaching, I act like a geocacher. When I'm at a social event, I act like a socializer. When I'm at work, I act like a worker. When I'm fishing, I act like a fisherman. When in Rome.....

 

I have absolutely no problem interacting with anyone and discussing anyting under (or over) the sun.

I have spoken with lots of people about geocaching. Sometimes they look at me like I have lobsters coming out of my ears, sometimes they think it's cool.

 

But when I am searching for a geocache, I feel that I have certain responsibilities to the geocaching community in general and specifically to the hider of the cache I am seeking. I try not to damage the terrain or leave a bigger geo-trail than I found (hard to do with my dimensions! ) If I am in the general neighborhood of the cache, I will talk to anyone, as long as I don't feel that I will endanger the cache. I would feel terrible if I were the person to cause someone's cache to go missing. And it's not only the cache hider, but the general community as well. Others may have been planning to find the cache, and I may cause them to lose their chance to find it, too.

 

Whenever I am at GZ or have the cache in hand, I attempt to be as stealthy as possible for the few minutes it takes to do the logging and trading (if we do any) and hide it back at least as good as I found it. Once I am away from the immediate area, my stealth fog dissipates and I revert back to the gregarious, outgoing person I am.

 

I think it's perfectly natural for a person's demeanor to change, depending on their situation.

Being stealthy while at the cache doesn't mean someone is an introvert. It's just being prudent.

 

I also don't shout "Hi, Jack" to my friend across the airport, even if his name is Jack and it's been a long time since I've seen him!

 

Edited for spelling error.

 

Grrrreat post! I echo all of this.

[+StarBrand]

Here's my take:

 

When geocaching, I act like a geocacher. When I'm at a social event, I act like a socializer. When I'm at work, I act like a worker. When I'm fishing, I act like a fisherman. When in Rome.....

 

I have absolutely no problem interacting with anyone and discussing anyting under (or over) the sun.

I have spoken with lots of people about geocaching. Sometimes they look at me like I have lobsters coming out of my ears, sometimes they think it's cool.

 

But when I am searching for a geocache, I feel that I have certain responsibilities to the geocaching community in general and specifically to the hider of the cache I am seeking. I try not to damage the terrain or leave a bigger geo-trail than I found (hard to do with my dimensions! ) If I am in the general neighborhood of the cache, I will talk to anyone, as long as I don't feel that I will endanger the cache. I would feel terrible if I were the person to cause someone's cache to go missing. And it's not only the cache hider, but the general community as well. Others may have been planning to find the cache, and I may cause them to lose their chance to find it, too.

 

Whenever I am at GZ or have the cache in hand, I attempt to be as stealthy as possible for the few minutes it takes to do the logging and trading (if we do any) and hide it back at least as good as I found it. Once I am away from the immediate area, my stealth fog dissipates and I revert back to the gregarious, outgoing person I am.

 

I think it's perfectly natural for a person's demeanor to change, depending on their situation.

Being stealthy while at the cache doesn't mean someone is an introvert. It's just being prudent.

 

I also don't shout "Hi, Jack" to my friend across the airport, even if his name is Jack and it's been a long time since I've seen him!

 

Edited for spelling error.

I agree - nicely put.

[nonaeroterraqueous]

4. Chatting on the forums is differnet. I'm talking face2face contact. Why do you try to avoid it? The last stranger you avoided could have become a good friend. Why not say "hi"?

 

See my sig line.

[+simpjkee]

4. Chatting on the forums is differnet. I'm talking face2face contact. Why do you try to avoid it? The last stranger you avoided could have become a good friend. Why not say "hi"?

 

See my sig line.

 

gotcha