Who are the mysterious "point awarders" here?

[no1tovote4]

I considered it. You really think I should? Really?

I got Lolita in mine or I would consider it.

 

[Bonnie]

I considered it. You really think I should? Really?

If you do you may be giving her too much of what she is looking for?? Just my take

 

[Joz]

If you do you may be giving her too much of what she is looking for?? Just my take

Exactly.

But I did it anyway. <a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008_ZNfox000' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/4/4_18_5.gif' alt='Bag Head' border=0></a>

 

[5stringJeff]

Oh, you signed up to enjoy an occassional flamer come along who has no interest in debating any topic that she brings up?

We have all brought up several debating issues to her posts and D nailed it on the head with his summary of her posting style.

I am not saying that we should cater to trolls. I am not saying that we should say "Wow, that's interesting" every time someone posts a Michael Moore talking point - or a Rush Limbaugh talking point, for that matter. I do think that Darin was accurate in his assessment of Gabriella (Gabby, if you're reading, you do come across as arrogant).

What I'm saying is that every time someone comes in with an opinion that challenges the conventional wisdom of the board, everyone just assumes that the person is either a) a troll, b) looking for DU but got sidetracked, or c) a troll from DU. People aren't given a chance to prove whether or not they can back up their points; they are automatically branded and treated as outcasts.

Yes, there are liberals on this board who can't post without hearing it from Michael Moore first; wade comes to mind. There are also members who can't post without hearing it from Rush Limbaugh first; RWA somes to mind. Through no one's fault, but due to the member demographics, we have become a conservative board, but we are increasingly becoming a conservative board whose members do not tolerate opposing viewpoints. If people in general don't quit being so damn judgmental from a newbie's first post, we are going to become a de facto Free Republic wanna-be board. I don't want this board to go that way, and I'm sure no one else does either. So, at the risk of losing cool points around here, can we please knock off the holier-than-thou attitude?? I'm not saying that we let the trolls lose, and I'm not saying that we lower the standards of debate or discussion. But if the culture of the board doesn't change, there's not going to be any debating left, just a bunch of us sitting in our own little world.

 

[no1tovote4]

I am not saying that we should cater to trolls. I am not saying that we should say "Wow, that's interesting" every time someone posts a Michael Moore talking point - or a Rush Limbaugh talking point, for that matter. I do think that Darin was accurate in his assessment of Gabriella (Gabby, if you're reading, you do come across as arrogant).

What I'm saying is that every time someone comes in with an opinion that challenges the conventional wisdom of the board, everyone just assumes that the person is either a) a troll, b) looking for DU but got sidetracked, or c) a troll from DU. People aren't given a chance to prove whether or not they can back up their points; they are automatically branded and treated as outcasts.

Yes, there are liberals on this board who can't post without hearing it from Michael Moore first; wade comes to mind. There are also members who can't post without hearing it from Rush Limbaugh first; RWA somes to mind. Through no one's fault, but due to the member demographics, we have become a conservative board, but we are increasingly becoming a conservative board whose members do not tolerate opposing viewpoints. If people in general don't quit being so damn judgmental from a newbie's first post, we are going to become a de facto Free Republic wanna-be board. I don't want this board to go that way, and I'm sure no one else does either. So, at the risk of losing cool points around here, can we please knock off the holier-than-thou attitude?? I'm not saying that we let the trolls lose, and I'm not saying that we lower the standards of debate or discussion. But if the culture of the board doesn't change, there's not going to be any debating left, just a bunch of us sitting in our own little world.

Well stated.

 

[Joz]

.... But if the culture of the board doesn't change, there's not going to be any debating left, just a bunch of us sitting in our own little world.

I think we're refering to attitude here. NO ONE likes a smart ass. Especially another smart ass. Nor are people who think they have all the answers. We come here, all as individuals, with ideas and opinions. It is a place to share. Not be told HOW to think & feel.

 

[dmp]

I am not saying that we should cater to trolls. I am not saying that we should say "Wow, that's interesting" every time someone posts a Michael Moore talking point - or a Rush Limbaugh talking point, for that matter. I do think that Darin was accurate in his assessment of Gabriella (Gabby, if you're reading, you do come across as arrogant).

What I'm saying is that every time someone comes in with an opinion that challenges the conventional wisdom of the board, everyone just assumes that the person is either a) a troll, b) looking for DU but got sidetracked, or c) a troll from DU. People aren't given a chance to prove whether or not they can back up their points; they are automatically branded and treated as outcasts.

Yes, there are liberals on this board who can't post without hearing it from Michael Moore first; wade comes to mind. There are also members who can't post without hearing it from Rush Limbaugh first; RWA somes to mind. Through no one's fault, but due to the member demographics, we have become a conservative board, but we are increasingly becoming a conservative board whose members do not tolerate opposing viewpoints. If people in general don't quit being so damn judgmental from a newbie's first post, we are going to become a de facto Free Republic wanna-be board. I don't want this board to go that way, and I'm sure no one else does either. So, at the risk of losing cool points around here, can we please knock off the holier-than-thou attitude?? I'm not saying that we let the trolls lose, and I'm not saying that we lower the standards of debate or discussion. But if the culture of the board doesn't change, there's not going to be any debating left, just a bunch of us sitting in our own little world.

My first thought was to call for you being banned, because obviously, you're a troll.

 

[Bonnie]

I am not saying that we should cater to trolls. I am not saying that we should say "Wow, that's interesting" every time someone posts a Michael Moore talking point - or a Rush Limbaugh talking point, for that matter. I do think that Darin was accurate in his assessment of Gabriella (Gabby, if you're reading, you do come across as arrogant).

What I'm saying is that every time someone comes in with an opinion that challenges the conventional wisdom of the board, everyone just assumes that the person is either a) a troll, b) looking for DU but got sidetracked, or c) a troll from DU. People aren't given a chance to prove whether or not they can back up their points; they are automatically branded and treated as outcasts.

Yes, there are liberals on this board who can't post without hearing it from Michael Moore first; wade comes to mind. There are also members who can't post without hearing it from Rush Limbaugh first; RWA somes to mind. Through no one's fault, but due to the member demographics, we have become a conservative board, but we are increasingly becoming a conservative board whose members do not tolerate opposing viewpoints. If people in general don't quit being so damn judgmental from a newbie's first post, we are going to become a de facto Free Republic wanna-be board. I don't want this board to go that way, and I'm sure no one else does either. So, at the risk of losing cool points around here, can we please knock off the holier-than-thou attitude?? I'm not saying that we let the trolls lose, and I'm not saying that we lower the standards of debate or discussion. But if the culture of the board doesn't change, there's not going to be any debating left, just a bunch of us sitting in our own little world.

Jeff I agree with you and what you said in this post, Gabby however has shown absolutely no effort to have reasonable discussions even though many including and especially Kathianne, No1, Gem, Said, etc have attempted to do so with her, there are others on this board like you pointed out such as Bully, Missile Man, NE, and others who differ comepletely in ideology from a lot of us but they at least make the attempt to first present an intelligent opinion, then back it up with something other than insults. There are times when everyone on this board even friends get hot under the collar it's natural given the topics we discuss here, but for the most part fences are mended and most really try to show class and self restraint on both sides of the aisle, you included, in fact especially you I've noticed go out of your way to do that which is exaclty what being Christian is all about.

Okay now group hug everyone.........!!!!!


<a href='http://www.smileycentral.com/?partner=ZSzeb008_ZSXXXXXX42US' target='_blank'><img src='http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_30_2.gif' alt='Mommy' border=0></a>

 

[5stringJeff]

I think we're refering to attitude here. NO ONE likes a smart ass. Especially another smart ass. Nor are people who think they have all the answers. We come here, all as individuals, with ideas and opinions. It is a place to share. Not be told HOW to think & feel.

I agree. I'm saying that the newbie who comes in here with a condescending, holier-than-thou attitude is just as bad as the established poster who replies with a condescending, holier-than-thou attitude.

 

[5stringJeff]

Jeff I agree with you and what you said in this post, Gabby however has shown absolutely no effort to have reasonable discussions

Again, not trying to defend anyone, just trying to get people to recognize what is going on.

 

[Joz]

Again, not trying to defend anyone, just trying to get people to recognize what is going on.

Right back at'cha, GOP.

 

[fuzzykitten99]

Nakey keep walking that tightrope, soon you are bound to fall off.

nah, someone will push him...its too easy (and funny)...

 

[fuzzykitten99]

There are times when everyone on this board even friends get hot under the collar it's natural given the topics we discuss here...

exactly. usually, when i know that i am not going to change someone's mind(friend or foe), i just drop it, let it go, stop wasting my time, and move on to something else.

 

[Gabriella84]

Arrogant? Since when is it arrogant to proclaim your superior intellect whenever possible? :shocked:

If you don't like or agree with my points, come on out and challenge. Don't merely rephrase your favorite liberal insults.
Talk to me and I will talk to you. Flame me and I'll kick your ass.

Anyone want a cookie?

 

[Shattered]

Arrogant? Since when is it arrogant to proclaim your superior intellect whenever possible? :shocked:

If you don't like or agree with my points, come on out and challenge. Don't merely rephrase your favorite liberal insults.
Talk to me and I will talk to you. Flame me and I'll kick your ass.

Anyone want a cookie?

When does this ass-kicking commence? So far, you've got nothing.

 

[dmp]

Arrogant? Since when is it arrogant to proclaim your superior intellect whenever possible? :shocked:

If you don't like or agree with my points, come on out and challenge. Don't merely rephrase your favorite liberal insults.
Talk to me and I will talk to you. Flame me and I'll kick your ass.

Anyone want a cookie?

how do you expect people to challenge you when you simply run from intellectual debate?

 

[Isaac Brock]

With light stepping on glass floors, I'll try to wade into this one careful.

While, I don't know Gab84, her point definitely has validity. I first came to this board to learn of American views because:

1. My job would likely take me down there.
2. Broaden my views which are often limited to Canadian ideaology.
3. It's in my interest to know what my neighbour to the south is thinking.

I remember, my first post on the Canada forum, which had something to do with a politican at the time. I remember posting quite calmly and was immediately flamed and defamed as a troll. While subsequent postings after that, found very good people, over time, anything I say in contary to prevailing wisdom was, by some, markedly rejected and labelled as "liberal rant".

Additionally, I HAVE been docked negative points by more than one member for having posted a opinions contrary theirs, despite being on topic and a serious point.

I completely agree with what GOPJeff's assessment. He is markedly on, and it is true that since my arrival to the board, it has progressed from what Jim duely created as a board to debate and express views towards a Conservative pat-your-back board.

While I've definitely seen my share of liberal trolls coming to this board to stir up trouble, I am consistently surprised by the personal hate, slander and hostility allowed by some conservative members, who allowed to remain members. There is a duality of privledge on this board, of that there is little doubt.

I have immensely enjoyed using this board and read it daily. I have gathered a great respect for many members, however, I fail to see the use in posting under the current atmosphere. One, that I hope will change.

 

[dmp]

With light stepping on glass floors, I'll try to wade into this one careful.

While, I don't know Gab84, her point definitely has validity. I first came to this board to learn of American views because:

1. My job would likely take me down there.
2. Broaden my views which are often limited to Canadian ideaology.
3. It's in my interest to know what my neighbour to the south is thinking.

I remember, my first post on the Canada forum, which had something to do with a politican at the time. I remember posting quite calmly and was immediately flamed and defamed as a troll. While subsequent postings after that, found very good people, over time, anything I say in contary to prevailing wisdom was, by some, markedly rejected and labelled as "liberal rant".

Additionally, I HAVE been docked negative points by more than one member for having posted a opinions contrary theirs, despite being on topic and a serious point.

I completely agree with what GOPJeff's assessment. He is markedly on, and it is true that since my arrival to the board, it has progressed from what Jim duely created as a board to debate and express views towards a Conservative pat-your-back board.

While I've definitely seen my share of liberal trolls coming to this board to stir up trouble, I am consistently surprised by the personal hate, slander and hostility allowed by some conservative members, who allowed to remain members. There is a duality of privledge on this board, of that there is little doubt.

I have immensely enjoyed using this board and read it daily. I have gathered a great respect for many members, however, I fail to see the use in posting under the current atmosphere. One, that I hope will change.

Part of the problem is the quality of liberals which sign up. With increasing frequency, the Libs who join do nothing more than drive-by-inflamatory posting; they use passive-aggressive words in an attempt to feel victimized when called on their statements. They rant and scream and hate, all the while professing to be against those things.

 

[jimnyc]

I completely agree with what GOPJeff's assessment. He is markedly on, and it is true that since my arrival to the board, it has progressed from what Jim duely created as a board to debate and express views towards a Conservative pat-your-back board.

I have immensely enjoyed using this board and read it daily. I have gathered a great respect for many members, however, I fail to see the use in posting under the current atmosphere. One, that I hope will change.

This is what saddens me the most. I have much respect for Isaac and he was one of the primary users who showed me a better way to debate. I was actually embarassed of some of my posts after posting with Isaac. That's the unfortunate problem with generalizing. A great poster, great debater & one of the friendliest guys on the board - and he won't post because of the atmosphere. I can't blame him, but I can help make changes to make this a better board for all, conservatives and liberals alike.

In all sincerity, this was never a board designated for a conservative majority. I think the problem is that it was started by a conservative & friends and quickly grew with other like minded individuals. The occasional liberal that joined was either way out of line and banned or drilled with questions by the majority.

If I liberal joins today and makes the first few posts polite & civil - and perhaps well thought out, I'm willing to bet they would be accepted differently than someone joining and making their first post "It's all about oil, Bush has the IQ of a monkey" type posts.

Regardless, myself and the moderating crew will work harder to make the board all about fairness and allowing everyone their chance to post their points of view and opinions.

I hope newcomers to the board will feel more welcome, and I hope we can encourage Isaac to come back to sharing his wisdom with us.

-Jim

 

[Isaac Brock]

Part of the problem is the quality of liberals which sign up. With increasing frequency, the Libs who join do nothing more than drive-by-inflamatory posting; they use passive-aggressive words in an attempt to feel victimized when called on their statements. They rant and scream and hate, all the while professing to be against those things.

While I certainly can appreciate and agree in many cases with you that that happens. If one was to look from the otherside, perhaps one would begin to see that both side of the coin, can indeed flip.