[shelleyp]

There should never be something about 'respect' when it comes to a specification.

When I publish anything on the web, do I have to give credit to Tim Berners-Lee each time?

A specification isn't a badge of honor, it's a useful tool, one among many. Other than clarification of who is currently authority for, and making changes to, a specification, there should be no names on any spec or standard.

.

[donpark]

Respect is also a useful tool. It reduces conflicts just as diplomacy reduces violence. Yes, respect can be set aside but, when you do, expect controversy.

Why would anyone want to invite unnecessary controversy when writing a spec?