I concur .

At least this forum allows us to say whatever we want to in an expression of freedom. Perhaps I got a little too serious. I just got into one of those moods yesterday, and for that I don't apologize.

I've been staying out of these various conflicts that seem to building on this board lately but I will say this, and it is not directed at anyone or any group in particular.

I thoroughly enjoy hearing people discuss theology and philosophy. I don't pretend to be a master at any of it but I enjoy how it is always thought provoking.

However, the greatest challenge in such discussions is retaining a spirit of respect for the person or people you may be debating with. For some this is a challenge, for many it is too great a challenge.

We do have the freedom to discuss whatever we want it seems on this forum and that's one of the reasons why I have enjoyed it more so than other audio or techie boards. However, the respect factor is starting to strain for many.

I encourage you to discuss tough and thought provoking topics. Please do not hesitate to strongly state opinions. It takes a strong person to stick up for what they believe in but when you use that strength, also please find equal strength to do it with respect.

To me, the real winner of an intellectual debate is the person who can state and back up their comments without resorting to contempt, intimidation or profanity.

Remember, that you need disagreement in order to have a debate. If someone didn't disagree with you, then you couldn't have the discussion. Best you can hope for then is a soapbox and hope others are still listening.

I wasn't going to say anything because in the end, I really don't worry too much about what goes on here and who says what. I have made great friends here and I'll continue coming back here to share in that and for the knowledge that pours out in the other sub-forums. But hey, if everyone is going to have their say, I thought I would have mine too.

Hear-hear! Woo-Hoo! All-Riiiiight! (And all that, Andy!)

I'll drink to that, buddy !

Presumptous basterrrrd!

GOD, be nice!

I love this forum.

Joking on hold, you've stated exactly what often happens here, or anywhere else for that matter. That's when it gets creepy.

I don't recall, in my year of living dangerously here, seeing a religious debate get too nasty, ugly, creepy, but national and global politics are another thing. They seem to head there rather quickly. It doesn't help when many opinions funnel down to 2 or 3 and then camps emerge on the cyberic alluvial plain.
(OK, now I'm being obtuse.)

People also get shatty with each other over things audio. I find that amusing. It's like watching people bat each other on the head over the name of a color. Those, too, sometimes get personal, with name calling and insults to one's intellect.

I think everything you said should be the case. All things can be thrown on the table. That's what's sooooooo cool about this place and why I come back, too. It's not like we're all jonesin' for a/v advice on a daily basis. Luckily for those in need, there are pleny of people here jonesin' to share their knowledge and experience. Also uber cool.

Get hot about something, but not hateful. Like the "Good without God," movement, we can strive for "Hot without hate."

Joking not on hold:

Jeez, Murph. Go easy on contempt, intimidation and profanity.
They are the Holy Trinity of what I find funny.

Go in pieces.

xxoo,
GODBob, or, for homogram fanciers, BobDOG

A pertinent comic.