(June 14, 2012 at 3:08 pm)Tempus Wrote:(June 14, 2012 at 12:46 pm)Moros Synackaon Wrote: I like to imagine I've mellowed out, but most days I end up typing an angry response, pausing, and closing the tab without submitting.
I do that a lot.
(June 14, 2012 at 12:46 pm)Moros Synackaon Wrote: Because "You're a monstrous idiot for X,Y,Z and a fucking moron" doesn't work as well as "X,Y,Z are inconsistent and wrong. Your argument is weak".
Exactly.
(June 14, 2012 at 12:51 pm)Brian37 Wrote: "Atheist" is a word, and is viewed as an insult to many theists, so wrong again (...) You view an insult as merely being a word, but it isn't one word, it can be a person's perception that an idea or something that goes against their social norms can "insult" them.
Atheist is a word?! Well I'm glad you're here to tell us these things. Chewie! Take the professor in the back and plug him into the hyperdrive!
Yes, things not intended as insults can still be interpreted as such. I think my post makes it clear that I'm talking about intended insults, and if it doesn't it's clear now. If someone mistakenly interprets something I've said as an insult, or sees my beliefs or lack thereof as offensive, I correct them. If they persist I simply don't bother with them.
(June 14, 2012 at 12:51 pm)Brian37 Wrote: If we banned cussing in every context we would not have great comedians like George Carlin (...) I do not object to arguments of context as to when and where cussing is appropriate. I do object to any solution that uses "never". Not just on the issue of words, but anything in life. Nothing in life is black or white or either/or.
I don't know whether this part is still a response to my post, but I didn't say people should never swear or never insult. I enjoy watching Bill Hicks.
Now you want to make the distinction between "unintended and intended" "insults".
Same rules, at least for me apply, I cant speak for any other human. The rule is "depends on context". Every situation to me regardless of topic is case by case.
I think the best policy in dealing with someone you don't like is to either put up with them, if it is tolerable, or stay away from them. But you cant force someone to always be like you or always agree with you. If you chose to engage someone knowing their history it can only be up to you what you do.
As far as the comedy comment, that was a general quote for everyone. It is possible to quote someone but also at the same time make general statements for the benefit of the reader.
And what is wrong with Chewie? Love that furry oaf.
