Can We All Have Differences of Opinion?

[Abraham]

On quite a variety of topic some folks seem overwrought if another member expresses a difference of opinion.

Must you agree with me?

Of course not...nor I you.

Can we agree to disagree civilly?

Yes, yes we can.

Maybe it's just me noticing of late it seems if I (and others too, of course) think subject "A" and not "Z" one (sometime both) go hammer and tongs with harsh/insulting language. Why, if that's what you think, you're a (fill in youor favorite invective) so and so.

Honestly, if I express an opinion or you for that matter, the world won't come to an end if we disagree.

It's going to one very boring site if all agree about all things.

Vive la Diff'erence!

[jason812]

If I disagree with you does that mean I agree with you?

[strogg]

Abraham, I agree. There are times I post an opinion that may not be accepted by others. Most of the time it gets ignored. Sometimes, someone will counter back with arguments against what I said, or facts I didn't know to counter what I said, which is expected. This is a discussion board, not an argument board. Now, there are times when things escalate to flared arguments and personal attacks. Not always, but some of the time. And I sometimes find that it happens because people mistakenly perceive counter arguments of a discussed topic as personal attacks or a show of aggression, then take action against it. Of course, there are the bad actors out there that really do attack other members personally. It happens in every message board. I surmise that if everyone tries not taking things personally, ignore any personal attacks (perceived or otherwise), and keep a cool head, things will stay civilized. Also don't forget. Someone may write something that sounds very brash and offensive, when in reality, that person has the best of intents. Give people the benefit of the doubt.

Normally, what I do is that if things get heated to the point where tempers may explode, I stop posting. It is not worth my time to mitigate the situation. I just end it, and move on. There will be other times I can get my point across without inciting an aneurysm in others.

[Liberty]

Most of us that are here are very. Passionate about matters of self defense, I love the debates and discussions myself but hate to see hurt feelings. Sometimes people just need to respect where other people care conning from while others should take opposing views less personally.

[The Annoyed Man]

You are all perfectly free to be wrong.

[flechero]

You are all perfectly free to be wrong.

Well played, Sir!!

[Abraham]

TAM always says the right thing!

Unless we disagree of course.

(a rather rare event, but it does happen)

[Abraham]

strogg,

Your logic warms the cockles of my heart.

Some though, go to extraordinary lengths to disagree when it's simply not required.

My mind can be changed with logic and tact.

Some think tactlessness an equal to weakness...it (as people like you know) isn't, but a bull in the china shop is just that...

[Abraham]

jason812,

Your mastery of Zen knows no equal...what does your post mean?

Disagree is agreeing, wait, wait, now my head is exploding!

[ScottDLS]

Can't we all just get along.....?

[The Annoyed Man]

Can't we all just get along.....?

Absolutely! ......as long as you’re willing to admit that I’m right and you’re wrong!

[Sport Coach]

Can't we all just get along.....?

Absolutely! ......as long as you’re willing to admit that I’m right and you’re wrong!

You sure you're not ghost writing for my wife?

[MaduroBU]

The well-reasoned rebuttal is the teacher of the learned. I don't learn anything from people who agree with me. Even if I am correct, being forced to re-examine and explain my rationale always reminds me of and often distills its value.

[WTR]

My wife will watch CNN & MSNBC on a weekly basis just to see what they are saying and claiming.

[OlBill]

I've found if I post in a suit and tie, people are more apt to agree with me.