This has been in the FAQ since 2006; over 5 years.
http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?p=7697100#post7697100
Ellen Cherry points out:
Upon checking the ATMB threads I discover this is correct. I would like to request that the FAQ be updated to align the current policy with the stated FAQ to avoid further confusion between the stated policy (FAQ) and the threads in ATMB (hard to find).
It would help if you linked to the thread where Ellen Cherry said that, for context, but just going by what’s in your OP, I don’t see the conflict.
If you click on the blue button inside the quote it will take you to her post which you can then read in context.
The 2006 FAQ reflects the no zombies rule.
The zombies rule has now been modified.
Ergo, the FAQ should be modified.
Are you saying that the rule that applied during the “no zombie” days still applies, word for word, unchanged in the new “zombies are allowed” days?
Ultimately it’s the administrations choice, but I simply cannot see how a rule that said “NO” in 2006 can now be read to say “OK” in 2011.
It’s not hard. Update the FAQ.
The rule you quoted doesn’t say zombie threads are forbidden, though. It lays out some reasons why bumping zombie threads can be a bad idea, and then points out some specific exceptions to those reasons, and it finishes up with this:
So I’m not clear what language you think needs to be changed. The rule, as it currently stands, reflects both the policy of the moderation staff in general, and the specific content of the post you cited from Ellen Cherry.
OK. Thanks for considering the request.
Someone – oh wait, that would be me – is supposed to write an update of the zombie policy. It’s on my to-do list. Unfortunately, there’s a huge number of other things on my to-do list as well.
Thank you too twickster. An update, even just an update that says the rule is still in play, unchanged from when it was posted 5 years ago, would be most excellent.