INFO_DART,
I believe that the International Precious Metals thread is a great place to go exploring. Perhaps not for worthwhile investment, but if one is looking for examples of the various ways people become uncomfortable through posting, it is indeed a rich in vein. I don't really believe these methods of ostracism are really any different than the tactics employed to silence people for eons, nor do I think that most of them are the result of some 'cabal' of evil intent. Rather they simply illustrate the time honoured ways the Mob flexes its muscle.
And, why go beyond the boundaries of this thread? I believe we can see some aspects of behavior that arouse friction among our own participants. And since all web dialogue seems to be carried out in forums where only a portion of inter-participant discussion is occurring, who is to judge who is really right or wrong? Though I know I make decisions on such matters rather quickly.
I have found that getting by here is more a matter of simple manners, than it is recognizing the kinds of interaction that are occurring. We all have REAL lives that we live, and this is nothing more than a minor past time. With a few exceptions I attempt to treat all people with courtesy and respect. If I don't get that, I consider my actions and alter my approach. In my youth I was apt to engage quickly in reaction and attack; but now I'm to lazy to let it ruin a day. So in many cases just letting things work themselves out is the best course.
I see no difference here. With the exception perhaps that web based communication, being almost entirely written, often falls afoul of the recent general demise of the art form. Communication that does not communicate leaves the reader to his own conclusions; which, given our general paranoid nature, is more often interpreted as of ill intent than of humor or good will.
If indeed the pen is mightier than the sword, then we are re-engaging in the massive use of a powerful weapon/tool that we are quite rusty with. That we are prone to tear each other apart, intentionally or otherwise, is not really surprising. Whether it is a hammer or a gun, it is the novice who is likely to self inflicted wounds, and the injury of others. Does this mean we will mature as a 'society' as time goes by?
I hope so, but the vision of our 'assumed identities' ranting at each other over multimedia channels probably renders our current development inconsequential. Though 'tomorrow's vision' could likely as not include that SI court yard where the truly offended could resolve issues of honor. Returning us, perhaps, to some equilibrium where polite respect was more than just an ethic; but an aid to some kind of 'survival'.
regards,
mnmuench
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