Where is everybody?
If this forum gets much shorter were just going to have sticky's :(
Forum Discussion
bcbouy, that is an interesting observation about the flaming phenomenon. This forum (boondocking) actually contains much less of that than on some other discussion groups (which I will not name). But I have noticed that there are a few very angry and rude people (who I will not name), which is so puzzling -- I come to this website for entertainment (and also to learn something), not to squabble.
I just don't understand what is going on, or why someone would take the time to hassle someone they have never even met in the real world.
Is it possible for us -- the "non-flamers" -- to somehow create a culture of civility? Maybe by gently pointing out the difference between a respectful difference of opinion and a personal attack? Differences of opinion are more than just acceptable -- they are tremendously useful, when properly handled by the participants. For example, think of carefully-reasoned discussions of tires, or weight issues, or battery care. Those are very enlightening, but they are so often poisoned by acrimony and bickering. The flamers don't even realize that their harsh tone undermines their own credibility.
And the consequence of flaming is that newbies with good questions are deterred from posting, and also folks who have useful ideas to contribute sometimes don't. The discussion often deteriorates because no one is left to post, other than the most aggressive and hostile people.
I just don't understand what is going on, or why someone would take the time to hassle someone they have never even met in the real world.
Is it possible for us -- the "non-flamers" -- to somehow create a culture of civility? Maybe by gently pointing out the difference between a respectful difference of opinion and a personal attack? Differences of opinion are more than just acceptable -- they are tremendously useful, when properly handled by the participants. For example, think of carefully-reasoned discussions of tires, or weight issues, or battery care. Those are very enlightening, but they are so often poisoned by acrimony and bickering. The flamers don't even realize that their harsh tone undermines their own credibility.
And the consequence of flaming is that newbies with good questions are deterred from posting, and also folks who have useful ideas to contribute sometimes don't. The discussion often deteriorates because no one is left to post, other than the most aggressive and hostile people.
