Re: vitriol

AndyS wrote:
Alan Lichtenstein wrote:
I disagree. "Beating' the other guy demonstrates a triumph of ideas and
values in the court of public opinion, giving others reason to be
convinced and opinions of those who are truly objective, to be changed.


Andy writes:

I'm just going to pick out that sentence and comment....

In this forum, and most other "newsgroups", the clash of
ideas doesn't usually result in a "triumph of ideas", but
rather degenerates into personal attacks...

Once that starts, and it starts quickly, NOBODY pays any
attention to the "arguments" anymore, but just stand on the
sidelines cheering for their particular champion, i.e., the
person they happen to agree with.

I am not aware of ANY person who has had their opinion about
anything changed, based on discussion on these soc. and alt.
newsgroups...

On the other hand, the professional groups , such as the
tax, legal, construction, and gardening newsgroups, often have
changed the minds of the readers based on the facts, or
opinions , posted. There is almost no contention or
agression there --- certainly not enough for me even remember
the last time I saw some...... And I have regularly changed my
mind about how to do certain things after visiting there, as good
and logical argument are presented, sometimes from
opposing viewpoints.....

So, in my experience, it's only the "retirement" groups which
are populated by old farts with too much time on their hands
(I include myself) and nothing much else in their lives, that take
such pride in being obnoxious to each other.....

.... but that's just an observation, an opinion, and not a
proven fact.....

Andy in Eureka, Texas

You're all right Andy.
I don't care what anybody says.

And observant to boot.
What a bargain.

Dorothy
.

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