Step 1: One side debates with another.
Step 2: No one changes their opinion.
Step 3: Mutually, respect is lost between the debaters.

I am positive that you don't know what you're talking about, you scumbag. (sorry, I couldn't resist)

Occasionally you get an intelligent exchange of ideas, but not often. It does give people a place to vent.

Marlon, that was totally uncalled for. Don't start any shit in here.

It ends right now.


Don Cardi

DC- Sounds like something a liberal would say, or a conservattive. Take your pick.

I'm done with politics. It's just a giant "let's insult and urinate all over each other" fest.

It's one thing to talk in a normal exchange. It's different with 99% of the bullshit I read in these political threads. Instead of pissing on each other until a thread is locked, log off and do something. Watch a movie, listen to a song, or go onto a GOOD thread.

The outcome of most debates on this board is simply a loss of respect.

I agree with Vercetti. Arguing politics can only lead to negative outcomes. I wish there was no such thing.

I'll give you three weeks.

Well, the whole reason I'm here is for debate. It does go quite nicely as long as people support their position with facts and don't make ridiculous personal insults, but I suppose that is the way with actual politics nowadays anyways.

Oh well. DV, no need to worry yourself, you've done a good job of staying away from political threads for the last year or so, I wouldn't be terribly concerned.

I want to be respected by those who I respect.

It's not the politics, Don V, it's the people.

Did he debate before the last year? And where was he on the left-right scale?

Btw, to me it seems that it's always the same people that start insulting others... Not going to say who, though.

If I recall, DV tended to side with the precursors to the Evil Empire.

And why not name names?

And why not name names? [/b][/quote]Because thats the adult way to handle this here.

But is the implication itself any more adult?

"Oh, _______ does this, but I'm not going to tell you why!"

Seems rather childish to me. I mean, if he has something to say, say it. Don't just hint at it and say

I'm going to try and make a conscious effort to "clean up" my posts (since my opponents have found them to be overly abrasive). How about everyone else?

There's a difference between stating a fact and implying someone (or something) doing something for a reason. He correctly did not inflame the situation by naming a specific individual, something we're trying to avoid here.

There's no room for latitude or interpretation here. Thats the rule, and those who break it will be referred to as "________ , who is now on vacation", OR "former member ________".

OK, I will too.

As one of your many "opponents" I must say, I don't think you need to "clean up" anything, if by that you mean mince your words to obscure your meaning.

If you take a particular viewpoint, then state it clearly. As you have done. Don't water it down in fear of "offending" anyone. That stifles debate.

I respect you for stating your strong views without the genial equivocation of a politican, but with the forthright directness of a person genuinely interested in politics.

I like debate, not a mutual admiration society.

OK so I think some of your political and social views are complete tripe, and strongly disagree with you on those points, but that's the whole point of debate isn't it? If we're all going to start kissing each others ass then what's the point?

Yes, things do get a bit heated. But there are no real hardcore "flame wars" like I've seen on less mature forums. Normally a couple of posts where I call JJ a moron and he calls for me to be banned. Again :p . I think that's a small price to pay for what is normally - to be honest - an entertaining and interesting debate.

I agree with all except #3. In MOST cases, we can disagree & still maintain a degree of respect for the opposing member(s).

However...I've found that just as the GF forums is a pleasant escape from the ugliness sometimes found in General Discussion, the 'Polotical Threads' can be a refreshing outlet from some of the more inane Godfather topics, such as discussing a background sound or what someone is holding in their hand or whether somebody might be wearing socks that don't match (wait...eventually somebody might even notice THAT...).

Apple

Apple, How nice to see you back. I was disappointed not to see any rolling eyes in your post, though.

Why bother...the graemlins, etc. are certainly useful and fun, but not always necessary.



Apple

Apple not for nothing, but I never expected something like that from you.

I may go at it with people on here a lot but you never see me post something like that to a fellow board member.


DS

As one of your many "opponents" I must say, I don't think you need to "clean up" anything, if by that you mean mince your words to obscure your meaning.

If you take a particular viewpoint, then state it clearly. As you have done. Don't water it down in fear of "offending" anyone. That stifles debate.

I respect you for stating your strong views without the genial equivocation of a politican, but with the forthright directness of a person genuinely interested in politics.

I like debate, not a mutual admiration society.

OK so I think some of your political and social views are complete tripe, and strongly disagree with you on those points, but that's the whole point of debate isn't it? If we're all going to start kissing each others ass then what's the point?

Yes, things do get a bit heated. But there are no real hardcore "flame wars" like I've seen on less mature forums. Normally a couple of posts where I call JJ a moron and he calls for me to be banned. Again :p . I think that's a small price to pay for what is normally - to be honest - an entertaining and interesting debate. [/b][/quote]Surprisingly, I have to concur with you. I'd much rather prefer raw, honest debate.

I do think however everyone has to try and be at least a bit more respectful, or perhaps "tactful," with regards to these arguments.

BTW - DWFL - I wub you too!

Oh, Apple, that sense of humor of yours always gets me going!!

I'm feelin' the love bro!

Until the next debate...

You HILTER OR NAZI! :p