Thomas Jefferson is said to have made the statement "I might not agree with what you say but I will defend to the death your right to say it", or words to that effect. Truly a democratic idea/principle and the cornerstone of our 1st Amendment rights as Americans. An idea, I might add, that has become almost universal with most western nations.
Flytalk appears to be a private forum open to public discussion on matters relevant to flyfishing. Such discussions are usually expressed as opinion as opposed to statement of fact - an opinion is just that - opinion, whereas a statement of fact is supported by ones acknowledged expertise (or, in lew of such first-person expertise, cited authoritative source). Please understand the difference...
A certain degree of tolerance is necessary for a "free discussion" and a justifiable expectation of any forum participant. Sure, you can't yell "fire" in a crowded theater and one is expected to remain somewhat civil per custom, yet to silence dissent through mob rule or private devise runs contrary to the purpose of "forum". Yet, there are those who actively participate in this forum who fail to see these points and/or take issue with any and all opinion they do not subscribe to and either chastise the opinion holder or seek "official" condemnation.
Barbs aside, I for one support all opinions expressed here whether I subscribe to them or not. I often take the roll of devil's advocate to spur on the discussion(s) and would hope that others can see it as such.
Thank you Juro for this forum. Thank you readers for your time. Let's get past the perceived personal affronts and get on with discussing matters relevant to flyfishing - from all sides.
S.Russell
Marblemount, WA
Flytalk appears to be a private forum open to public discussion on matters relevant to flyfishing. Such discussions are usually expressed as opinion as opposed to statement of fact - an opinion is just that - opinion, whereas a statement of fact is supported by ones acknowledged expertise (or, in lew of such first-person expertise, cited authoritative source). Please understand the difference...
A certain degree of tolerance is necessary for a "free discussion" and a justifiable expectation of any forum participant. Sure, you can't yell "fire" in a crowded theater and one is expected to remain somewhat civil per custom, yet to silence dissent through mob rule or private devise runs contrary to the purpose of "forum". Yet, there are those who actively participate in this forum who fail to see these points and/or take issue with any and all opinion they do not subscribe to and either chastise the opinion holder or seek "official" condemnation.
Barbs aside, I for one support all opinions expressed here whether I subscribe to them or not. I often take the roll of devil's advocate to spur on the discussion(s) and would hope that others can see it as such.
Thank you Juro for this forum. Thank you readers for your time. Let's get past the perceived personal affronts and get on with discussing matters relevant to flyfishing - from all sides.
S.Russell
Marblemount, WA