Wikipedia:No, you can't have a pony

"WP:PONY" redirects here. For the WikiProject, see Wikipedia: WikiProject My Little Pony. For real ponies, see Pony.

Even if you had a pony, you wouldn't be able to stop beating the dead horse!

There are times on Wikipedia where you won't win the argument. Arguments where no matter how much you try to convince others to see it your way, you won't be able to sway others. There's one of three things that you can do..

Option A

The attitude to emulate in Option A. Nothing wrong with a nice hissy fit.

Promise that until everyone else comes to see it your way, you're going to disrupt things by the silent method. For example, if someone posts something on your talk page that you don't agree with, you don't reply, but instead, make it clear that you hold the other person in disdain by removing their posts without even an edit summary. After all, this will obviously make people reconsider their opinion and you'll make them understand!

Option B

Common result of option B, with person attempting it in center.

Much the same as Option A, but the loud version. File multiple AN/ANI/RFC/ArbCom proceedings. Tag articles for NPOV or whatever else springs to mind, insisting that the tags remain until everyone comes to their senses and sees things your way. Show up wherever they show up, loudly proclaiming to all and sundry that the other persons are scoundrels, rakes, and people of low moral fiber! After all, for daring to disagree with you, they brought the pain on themselves.

Option C

Cute children give their opinion of Option C.

Shrug your shoulders, say "Oh well, can't win them all", and move on to things that matter. Remember, Wikipedia doesn't have a deadline, so if things change, you can always bring it up again, and see if everyone has changed their mind. You'll find this method is so much easier on the blood pressure.

So, in short...

Remember that losing an argument on Wikipedia isn't like your favorite sports team or political party losing. Realize when you're in a situation that further argument will do you no good, and only remind others of a young child, who wants a pony, no matter how many times their flustered parents explain why they can't have one.

See also

• WP:TEA. Or, Relax and have a spot of Tea.
• The Reichstag – this is what you will be accused of climbing, if you continue to insist that you deserve a pony.
• For the other side of the issue, see also WP:But I waaaant a pony!
• Wikipedia:Wikipedia is failing (particularly the last two sections)
• Wikipedia:Why Wikipedia is not so great (the section on cultural/behavioral issues)
• Wikipedia:Randy in Boise
• Pony prize for those times when someone actually DOES deserve a pony
• My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic: More ponies that you can have.