Quote:
Originally Posted by billethkid
being a past participant of the political forum I would offer the following observation to you all.
The forum was fine and allowed any topic.
It was spoiled by some very few who even after warnings continued to bait, harass and get down right nasty personal.
In addition there were some number of TOTV members who did not care for or like politics and had their views how people should disagree or not. While they did not like the political forum they would continue to come in and then complain to the administration about what they did not like to see and hear.
Now keep in mind that the political forum was made such that one HAD TO OPT IN to read/participate. The new political posts did not show up in the general new posts tab. So those who did not like it would opt in and then go complain.
So I here once again offer the same advice I did back then. If there is a forum or thread that does not suit one or the subject matter one does not care for.......it was and still is so simple....just do not go into that forum or that thread or subject matter one does not like.
I for one do enjoy the fact that some of the wordly subjects that do infact affect or potentially affect our lives or the lives of our friends and loved ones are being posted and actively participated in. And yes there are times when they do skew (like every forum or subject on TOTV does) off subject. And sometimes the subject drifts into political waters.
Another point to think about is that what is political to some is not to others.
I do not beleive the tone of any one thread or topic affects the way communications are conducted in other areas.
When I see or know there is a subject I do not care for, I do not go in to see what is going on. When someone in a thread gets out in left field or states something I do not particularly like.....it is just too easy to ignore!!!
In closing I would hope that the behavior of a few do not create an aura of general condition....when it is not. It wasn't in the political forum either!
I feel strongly about being able to have discussions and disagreements and even spirited counterpoint........No struggle no progress.
The above commentary is not aimed at any individual....but to the prospect of not being able to have open discussions about world affairs.
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I support what BTK has to say here.
If I do not like to read any subject area, say TALK OF THE BOOKS for an example, I do not go to BOOKS. If there is a subject in NON VILLAGES like say KITCHEN AID MIXER, I do not open it and do not read it.
NEVER, would I go on those threads and lecture those who do post. That is their business and they hurt nobody. If anyone does not want to read current events, then dont but please do not speak as if discussion of current events where you have the choice to enter that thread or not is having a negative affect on TOTV. It bothers anyone, they just should stay away.
I am pretty sure that a small group tore down the POLITICAL site with complaints, not on violations of TOTV policy, but violations of what they felt was to be said along with arranging to troll the board in groups. I KNOW that happened for a fact and TOTV had no choice...it became unwieldy for them to handle.
Next, I have always try to back my posts with credible links and solid facts. Those who visit these threads and simply take snipes offer NOTHING to any discussion.
Again, if a thread is offensive then please just do not read it.
I also totally disagree with the thought that mind do not get changed. IF those who participate actually give credible and accurate information that can be read, there is a real learning curve. I have learned much on the old political forum, especially in the area of economics which is not my strong suit. Sure we all have hard and fast general positions, but hopefully we are all open to learn and expand. HOWEVER, those who simply troll and make one line comments with no discussion offer nothing and I often wonder why they spend the time to post that one liner. It does not make much sense.