xftrplt Posted January 20, 2012 Author Report Posted January 20, 2012 I can neither type nor paste-in what I'm trying to say. I'll trouble shoot and try again. Quote
xftrplt Posted January 20, 2012 Author Report Posted January 20, 2012 1. Arguments/debates in cyberspace are almost always doomed to failure because: a. Most discussions in person are unsuccessful. After all, when have you actually changed anyone's opinion (other than, possibly, in your immediate family) by a carefully reasoned argument buttressed by facts and statistics? b. Politics, where there are few (any?) provable truths, is particularly hazardous and, especially recently, closer to religion, where "leaps of faith" insulate against rational persuasion. c. Both sides believe they're arguing with pigs. d. Participants lack the natural restraints of face-to-face engagements, which provide feedback that tempers the exchange. [The mean-time-to-use-"Nazi" (MTTUN) is much shorter online.] e. Since you probably don't have to actually live or interact with your opponents, normal discretion and manners are relaxed. 2. This meeting board has been graciously provided ostensibly to discuss Mooney-specific topics and subjects of general aeronautical interest. a. Political food-fights seem to push the bounds of the respectful use of this bandwidth, if not Craig's largesse. b. From a simple cost/benefit perspective, do we gain more in terms of opinions swayed and spleens vented than we lose in good-will and civility? c. If too many threads spin-off on contentious tangents, we may discourage participation from members and dissuade newcomers from joining. d. There are, after all, numerous other sites available for those disposed towards political combat. Quote
David Mazer Posted January 20, 2012 Report Posted January 20, 2012 Considering that I am now actively engaged in just a political discussion on this site, it is worth noting that the original subject was political in nature, I try hard to keep my arguments civil as if I have to face the people with whom I address tomorrow (my apologies in general, in advance, and in hindsight where I have and will fail at this), and, no, I'm sure I've never changed anyone's opinion about anything. Quote
John Pleisse Posted January 20, 2012 Report Posted January 20, 2012 Annonymity is the biggest problem. You'll notice those who readily give their names or are known within the Mooney community, routinely show restraint and good contribution (Me? I use my tail number which anybody can run in 12 seconds and always provide my name on demand). Another issue is being able to sort out valuable information that can easily be purported overzealously or incorrectly because of simple innersocial-dynamics. Politics and religion aside (guilty, more than most), I enjoy Mooneyspace.......even with it's warts. The Cessna 180/185 Association boasts hundreds of members. They require you actually own a Skywagon and vett applicants thoroughly, actually comparing applications with resgistrations. Makes for a great online community, I hear. John Pleisse, Darnestown, MD Quote
rob Posted January 20, 2012 Report Posted January 20, 2012 I have no problem with discussion/debate on any subject, so long as a modicum of respect is kept. I don't even necessarily believe that anyone has to be swayed or any minds changed for discussion to be fruitful. The nice thing about the Internet is that you can choose to not read anything you like; unfortunately, in person, that's not always an option. I am not sold that anonymity has much to do with restraint and good contribution; I think we've all experienced a fair amount of unnecessary banter and/or personal attacks from some of the most easily identified persons on this site. I believe the medium makes it more difficult for some to display restraint, anonymous or not, it's not "real" so to speak. Points 1d and 1e of Dick's post. That said, I agree with John above, I enjoy Mooneyspace. Quote
fantom Posted January 20, 2012 Report Posted January 20, 2012 Quote: N4352H I use my tail number which anybody can run in 12 seconds and always provide my name on demand Quote
John Pleisse Posted January 20, 2012 Report Posted January 20, 2012 Quote: fantom John...I DEMAND you indicate your year and type in your signature block! Quote
rob Posted January 20, 2012 Report Posted January 20, 2012 You know who I am. I'm Rob. Others who need more specific information have it. I'm not an engima. When my location is relevant, I disclose it. When the model Mooney I fly is relevant, I mention that. Otherwise, I'm not a fan of signatures. Waste of bandwidth. I don't wear a nametag that discloses my name, location, etc. so why do it online? Quote
kris_adams Posted January 20, 2012 Report Posted January 20, 2012 I don't particularily like the political stuff, but since I don't really read them they don't bother me. The interaction between a few board members and 'smiles is pretty fun at times though--particularly when it is Mooney or Garmin related. Quote
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