Should I always reply?

[True North]

Hi guys! I have lurked here for a while, but finally signed up. In true DIS fasion, I have seemed to get in the middle of a debate in my first couple posts. (Don't worry, no refilable mugs or pool hopping! ) Now, I was just trying to give the point of view of another person, but have since been quoted in 5 diffrent posts. I feel the need to respond to each of these explaining my views. This seems to result in more quotes and more questions to answer. I have no problem answering, or explaining my opinions, but I have noticed I seem to make up every second post. What is protocol on things like this? I don't want to be a thread hog, yet I don't want to ignor anyone. Sadly, I don't even have that strong an interest in the topic, but am happy to give my views.

Any recomendations for a newbie in his first debate?

 

[DutchsMommy]

I think some people just enjoy posting an opposing opinion to create debate. I would say that if the topic no longer interests you to just leave it. And welcome to the DIS (at least the posting part!) PS - Hope over and check out the Canadian Board too.

 

[True North]

Thanks DutchsMommy!

I have visited the Canada board. That how I got into the debate by accedent, when I posted a Canadian opinion on the Community Board instead of the Canadian Board regarding the new Florida gun laws. I don't beleave that people are trying to fight with me, but I some how seem to be constantly explaining Canadian gun laws. No idea how I started to do that in a Disney forum!

 

[DutchsMommy]

Ah - the community board - home of the heated discussion I would say if there's anywhere you feel like responding that would be the best place, but there again only if it's something that matters to you. As far as Canada vs. the USA on gun-control - you will never get to the end of that debate, the lines are just drawn too deep. Just look at the reaction Bowling for Columbine had. Anyway, better not turn this thread into a debate LOL.

 

[kelleigh1]

I like to think of myself as non-confrontational...although sometimes, it just happens. Usually, if my post spawns a debate and I've responded a couple of times, I usually get to the point where I just walk away figuring that the point I'm trying to make just isn't going to be seen by those who disagree no matter how many ways I say it. And it's not that I'm trying to say "I'm right and you're wrong." but sometimes I'm just hoping that eyes will open and they'll say "I see you're point, even though I don't agree with it."

For me it just comes to a point where I can't be bothered to keep arguing for a couple of reasons...it's going nowhere and/or in the grand scheme of my life, it's not really that important.

And as Dutchsmommy said, sometimes people just argue for the sake of arguing. And on a public message board, it makes them feel important to create turmoil.

 

[canwegosoon]

Since the demise of the debate board, the community board (and other boards with specific topics) seems to have become a battle ground. The Moderators do a good job if something is out of hand, by closing the thread.

I will post an opinion if it is something I care about, but Dis is an online forum...very hard to tell exactly what people mean, and if they are taking their personal experiences out on you. Some posters can be over zelous (you have the right to add them to your ignore list!!!). I like sticking to posts that ask about Disney questions...and so forth. Welcome to the Dis...

 

[True North]

Thanks guys! I feel like I should make it clear that to the most part everyone has been friendly and has been in insightful debate. If anything I am worried I am becoming the annoying one. I am a Canadian Studies major, so I feel the need to answer questions about my country when someone asks. I just didn't want to run on someones toes as the conversation seems to get off topic. I'll just keep answering if they ask a direct question to me and leave it at that. Thanks again for your help!