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[JAbuchan08]

434. Thanks?

I actually didn't describe any of the posts here as "extremely controlling and authoritarian behavior" I was speaking generally about the shaming culture we have (in society in general and the web in particular) which allows people to feel good about themselves by exposing and destroying "villains" who may or may not actually be villains, and who (if they are villains) aren't exactly Dr. Doom.

I was speaking (generally) of how this culture uses the mandate of politeness and respect for each others feelings (usually uni-directional) to shame people who disagree into silence and I was stating that I believe this behavior is rooted in an authoritarian mindset. This mindset is at odds with the liberalism that I grew up with, which was based on free speech and the free exchange of ideas.

I was describing how I do believe that politeness and respect for each others feelings are important, but that the expectation of politeness can be abused. I'm sure you have seen this on a micro-level where an individual uses their personal sensitivities to manipulate and control people and I'm sure you wouldn't consider it an attack on politeness or sensitivity to call out that manipulation where it occurs.

All I'm saying is that controversies like this can be illustrations of similar behavior on a macro level.

and I admit that's a bit of a dodge to say I'm speaking in generalities, but honestly I rarely post here because it's like tip-toeing through a minefield and vagaries are a learned defense mechanism. Certain things; however like proscriptions for "real man" behavior (regardless of the source or intent) give me a niggling urge to tickle my keyboard.