There are a couple of web browsers that already display HTML on a text terminal (see "Lynx"). So, we know it's possible to convert HTML into plain text already. Why not just make a mail client which converts the HTML into text, runs the Bayesian filter on it, and assuming the mail is deemed non-spam, display it, either as text or as pretty HTML. No major change to the e-mail infrastructure required, and all spam gone (according to the claim that Bayesian filters work perfectly on plain text).

If I remember correctly, I think you are a fellow Pocomail user. If you haven't upgraded to Poco 3.0 yet, it has a nifty button that when engaged - strips all html from the email so just the text comes through. If you need html on a case by case basis, you can turn it on for an individual email as needed to read it.

I thin the challenge-response systems that are getting a lot of press do impose a cost on the sender - although it is a non-monetary cost. It takes a few seconds of extra time and effort to email somebody for the first time if they have CR in place. I haven't pulled the trigger on gone to yet, but I'm seriously considering it.

I don't see how you could make some kind of grand change like this without inhibiting the free flow of information. I detest spammers more than most, but enjoy my freedom as well. I think the answer lies more at the service end, than the recipient end. Stop spam before it sent, not when it's received.

It's unfortunate, but maybe we'll have to wait until the current system is thoroughly ruined, and then implement better email protocols. Why wait until it's ruined? Because I don't think people will change before that. I can't offer up what these better protocols are off the cuff, but I've read many discussions of what would solve the problem (or at least make it manageable).

I think you're naive. This country is gonna need money pretty quick here, the internet mail is a cash cow, pure and simple and no worthy email provider is not prepared to have an accounting and figure out how they'll handle the new federal requirement, which I'm damn sure will be forthcoming very shortly. Sob.

I am totally against e-mail taxes. We're taxed more than enough as it is. Instead of finding new ways to tax people, why don't you find a way to drastically reduce spending. Also, quit trying to create new programs whereas new taxes are needed. Look to the Republicans for this!

I'm with you. I am so tired of our "elected" officials wasting our hard earned dollars and then we get to pay them a salary to figure ways to tax us so they can have more to spend. There will never be enough for money for "these people". They all have their own agendas to fulfill and that takes money. They should figure a way to cut their own spending and frivulous quirks. The should pay for their own gas, cars, lunches and should work out of modular offices and our children should be learning in heated and air conditioned rooms of granite floors and mahogany panelled walls. See what I mean? They can come to me for suggestions on how to cut costs and I will tell them what they don't want to hear......................