(May 3, 2012 at 6:28 am)Creed of Heresy Wrote: You probably hate the shit out of me, then.
Nope
I think you demonstrated in the preceding paragraph that we agree on major points; such as that many of us on these forums were ignorant once (and in some areas, still are) and we need to appreciate that others mightn't have had access to the same knowledge and experiences that we have. I also agree that people making decisions about something they're ignorant of can be dangerous.Where I disagree is about anger and its place in a debate. Can you think of one example of where calling someone an idiot / retard / etc enhanced or contributed to a debate? And if it's not enhancing or contributing to the debate then why do it? Clearly if one responds angrily, knowing it will not convince anyone, nor contribute anything meaningful the only reason they can be doing it is for themselves. Also, what of the potential harm it could do? What of other potential contributors to such discussions that instead end up being driven away due such vitriol? Even if it could be demonstrated beyond doubt that someone was wilfully ignorant, how does this justify insult? And more importantly, would insult help them? If not, why do it? To hinder them? What need, other than one originating from the insulter, could this possibly fulfil?
I'm not suggesting people simply shouldn't get angry, but I do think words can be easily be chosen (again, particularly online) to prevent or diffuse unnecessary confrontation and personal attacks.
