07-01-2013, 06:13 PM
Let's see if I can make an impassioned post without "resorting to name calling" for those who are offended by such things. Although I agree that ad hominem is not a valid form of argument, still it can be a valid form of expression when properly provoked. Indeed, there are those who would appear as saints in their tone and manners as they ever so politely insult those whom they seek to control. But, that must be allowed, as there is no policy prohibiting this behavior? I think not. Should it be officially moderated? I think not. Should it be allowed to stand? Absolutely not! The individual at whom the insult was leveled must dispatch it without delay and with considerable vigor. You see, there was a thinly disguised ad hominem contained within the politely phrased admonishment encouraging us to "stay focused" as though we were not focused. Otherwise, who would spend this amount of time and effort on a subject of such importance? Only the disingenuous. I can assure you that that is not the case with me, and speaking (without permission) for Charles, it is not the case with him either.
I was one of the founders of the first "no flame zone" JFK forum, so I am quite supportive of policies designed to prevent the melt down that unbridled ad hominem can and will spawn. But, even Rich allowed for emotional outbursts as long as they were brief and to the point particularly by those who had well established bona fides. Jack White comes to mind. I never, ever heard or read a curse word from Jack White in over 15 years. Not even one--no matter the circumstances. I think it was both the fact that he was a gentleman, but also, I think he found it somewhat "sinful" for lack of a better word. However, even Jack would find a way to express himself and return attack when warranted. I remember him saying to another member of the forum: You are full of bovine excrement! -- Even Jack had limits.
I shall strive to live up to the high standards established by this forum in the future.
I was one of the founders of the first "no flame zone" JFK forum, so I am quite supportive of policies designed to prevent the melt down that unbridled ad hominem can and will spawn. But, even Rich allowed for emotional outbursts as long as they were brief and to the point particularly by those who had well established bona fides. Jack White comes to mind. I never, ever heard or read a curse word from Jack White in over 15 years. Not even one--no matter the circumstances. I think it was both the fact that he was a gentleman, but also, I think he found it somewhat "sinful" for lack of a better word. However, even Jack would find a way to express himself and return attack when warranted. I remember him saying to another member of the forum: You are full of bovine excrement! -- Even Jack had limits.
I shall strive to live up to the high standards established by this forum in the future.
GO_SECURE
monk
"It is difficult to abolish prejudice in those bereft of ideas. The more hatred is superficial, the more it runs deep."
James Hepburn -- Farewell America (1968)
monk
"It is difficult to abolish prejudice in those bereft of ideas. The more hatred is superficial, the more it runs deep."
James Hepburn -- Farewell America (1968)