Re: from the village voice (pc)

["sonic5" <sonic5>]

On 21 Jun 2002, at 19:30, anthony_r wrote:

> 
> I believe you were criticized by sonic5 awhile ago for seeming to
> support the idea that killing innocent civilians is somehow justified,
> which of course you weren't saying anything of the sort, 

Wow, I'm flattered to be remembered. But for the record, I questioned 
a post that was unclear (as did a few others). Dlofdahl answered my 
question and I thanked him. (and my question came from a similar 
situation - Dlofdahl posted an article [or excerpt from an article as 
I recall ] with no comment. So I had no idea what he/she was trying 
to convey. Without some comment how am I to know if the poster 
agrees/disagrees with the source they've quoted?)

The reason I hate seeing politics brought up here is not because I 
think its unacceptable subject matter per se, but because its never a 
discussion, but rather a monologue, and very often a diatribe - and 
ultimately a slug-fest of sorts, with folks feeling the need to 
personally disparage anyone who disagrees. (as above. I mean, why 
exactly was it  necessary to attach a value judgment like 
"criticized" when mentioning a past question of mine? Indeed the 
whole sentence is written so as to make me appear "wrong.")

And certainly that's not restricted to this list. It happens almost 
every mailing list and usenet group I read.  Online forums tend to 
become PR vehicles for folks who want to convert the world. I 
appreciate the passion, but, speaking only for myself, lectures 
rarely convince me to do anything except have flashbacks of my 
parents.

I do  however appreciate being directed to specific sources so that I 
can make up my own mind.  And I thank those of you who have included 
links to such sources.  

I speak only for myself when I say, just because I may choose not to 
reveal my position on some things or because I question certain 
posts, it doesn't necessarily mean I disagree with you. But if I do 
disagree, please recognize that I have come to my opinion with as 
much research and thought as led you to your view. And I would like 
the same respect as you request. 

s5