| | I think SamErica feels that an Objectivist board is a place for Objectivist discussion, and other discussions are out-of-place in such an environment. I don't think SOLO is such a forum, however. Here are my reasons:
These are public forums, and anybody can post without registering, etc. They simply click reply or new thread and write one. SamErica mentioned there is no ignore function. You can't have an ignore function unless you require people to register. Otherwise, people will just modify their name if they want yuo to see, like vertig0 or such.
These forums typically have a public purpose. The message of SOLO seems to be to be an example to people about how to live rationally and to point out the contradictions and folly in religion, etc. It says on this site 'it is battle for people's minds'. In this regard, certainly you need people who aren't Objectivists to participate, otherwise you become an elite club. Since non-objectivists participate, you are likely to get debates and arguments that seem stupid. The overall qualitative value of the posts and threads are less, but this does not in any way mean serious Objectivist discussions can't still take place between Objectivists. This is the perfect place for it, where non-Objectivists can see the debate aswell.
Disagreement is natural, and shows people are willing to test their beliefs. This is infinitely more important than being scared to post in case you get shouted at, or feeling it is pointless to intervene, because such people are so useless. If they are purposefully looking for a fight, though, I understand. SamErica, I am not moaning at you now, you were willing to talk to me even when I said things which were unsubstantiated.
As for the 'young'uns' comment, young people tend to be more self-assured, and more willing to challenge an opinion. This results in more meaningful discussion.
Life is not one-dimensional, and it is always good to be afforded the oportunity of defending your standpoint. It puts into perspective why you believe it. If we all agreed on everything, we would have no need to question what we believe.
SamErica, if I or anyone say something you feel is not appropriate for this board, please say so, don't sit on it. By not saying it you imply, however incorrectly, that you somehow want to avoid confrontation.
Some of us are perhaps overly frantic defending our position, like some posts of mine, Francois's and Henry's, but unfortunately we don't have the benefit of decades of life experience as you yourself do. Since you don't have need to discuss topics you have already pondered, we are left to discuss them. Sorry if it annoys you, seems pedantic, or is potentially off-topic.
These forums are probably near the best on the net as regards to having intelligent and controlled participants. Therefore, it is a good place for intelligent discussion that might not fit under the Objectivist banner.
I speak only for myself, please don't view this as me 'telling how it is'.
As for swapping compliments, I think Henry understands me pretty well, and this is evidenced by how he is responding to my posts lately. Actually, I have only given one compliment, saying I think he understands me. I don't know exactly why he is so free with compliments, but I am proud enough to accept them.
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