Thread deletion makes me feel very uncomfortable, It does seem to be a form of censorship. I don't mean to be disrespectful, but it feels very arbitrary, and rather than creating a lighter atmosphere it might well lead to some distrust and suspicion amongst members.

I think there is a danger of stifling debate, and creating a Catch 22 situation with threads being deleted. Members may feel neither they or their opinion are valued- which isn't the climate you want to create, because as you've said you want input, and a vibrant site.

No disrespect intended.
rach