I haven't posted on these forums for some time (though I have read through a number of threads from time to time)... 1) because I've been occupied elsewhere and 2) there's not been much point. The near complete lack of debate here has been repulsive and both sides (ARA's and anti-ARA's) are equally responsible. When the argument comes down to the size of one's genitals or a lack of them or a suggested activity for them, your argument is done and so is your credibility.
It's not merely the posting of pro-hunters or anti-ARA's that drives people from these forums. It IS the complete and utter disrespect and vulgar way in which people are treated. No matter who starts it, it always boils down to the same thing... a free-for-all with crap flying everywhere. AR supporters are just a guilty of this as anti-AR people are, if not more so.
In case it's never occurred to the AR supporters, being anti-AR does NOT make one anti-AW. You gain no respect for your position on any side of the argument by behaving worse than the animals you profess to support or show concern for. Until you can make your case without making incivility the soapbox on which you stand you'll contribute nothing and convince no one that your cause it just. You can't beat people into following your path. You can't gain marked effort it your cause of animal rights as long as man disregards the rights of other men... period!!
I will also say that when I joined this forum, the habit (which hasn't changed too much) was to jump people and make assumptions on who they are and what they believe. I suppose that should be expected on a sometimes volatile forum such as this. However, when it's clear that it's a young person posting a concern, a point of view, a question... it is disgusting to see the snide and/or nasty comments of the attack commence. Being on the receiving end of that was (and is) disconcerting and daunting, to say the least. It's clear that many join this site for the sole purpose to inflame and get a good dig in at another. Being a troll is regarded as sport by some who only seek to see how long it takes for them to be banned. A moderator is a necessary thing on a board such as this for that reason alone. That said, and even though Satan Jr (as has been admitted by him... to some degree) certainly has given just cause to being called a "meanie", I feel he has also (on occasion) been able to admit when he has posted with less accuracy or understanding. That's an important point for one who will be selected to moderate these forums. For that reason I support Satan Jr (hopefully renamed something less connected to "evil") being selected for the job. I also support Sandra as a co-moderator for the same reason. Should whoever Josh chooses prove that they cannot do the job in an equal and responsible way, I have full faith that he can, and will, recognize this and take the appropriate action.
LSBF
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