I guess it's sad that people cannot debate topics without getting all emotional and starting verbal or physical fights.

Have we lost all self control or respect for others' opinions? I think that was a central theme in "debate class" in grade-school Perhaps they don't teach this anymore?

While I agree that politics may not be the central theme of a multihull site, it seems sad that discussions and discourse often turns so primevil (even sailing topics)..

One of my shooting partners once said three things will solve most of our problems (this may apply to the politics discussion, too):

Study up - know what you are talking about or shut up. If you can't verify your source to others, it's hearsay and non-admissible in any discussion

Lighten up - we're all entitled to our opinions, and it is not up to us to change anyone else if they don't want to (and few people actually want their opinions changed by other people - even if data proves they are incorrect)

Grow up - you can still appreciate and respect someone, even if you don't agree with them. You (the participant) control the debate - don't be stupid enough to let it become an argument. Call it "respectfully disagree" and move on.

Who is Feth?

Feth comes after 4th and before 6th!

<img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

I think the problem with "political discussion's" online is that we are too far removed from one another physically and emotionally to be able to value and respect one another's opinion's.

It is just too easy to write someone off as ignorant or wrong. Unkind things are said even in this forum, that would never be said in a "face to face" discussion.

I enjoy a "spirited Debate" but usually with someone that I already know and respect. Often in the course of the debate I learn something about the subject we are debating. How can that be a waste of time.

The problems start when you hold your opinions more dearly than your friendships. True friendships often survive and flourish because of differences not in spite of them.

In Example, I think the Hobie 18 is the best catamaran in the world. I call some of the people that disagree with that opinion very close and dear friends. Some of the people that disagree with that opinion, are willing to call me friend, life is good.

Just my .02.

Stephen