Very Strong Opinions

staticman00's avatar
I have noticed recently that there are some very strong opinions here. I don't mean opinions in a positive, constructive way, but in a negative, damaging way. I know I am guilty of this as well, and am writing this to maybe help make this site better.
When I go back and read some of my posts and replies, I am disappointed in myself. Disappointed that I sunk to a low level of thinking, just bashing other's opinions and parks because I felt my opinions were threatened. I know free speech is encouraged here, and I appreciate that, but there is a fine difference between free speech and uncontrolled speech. People should know what lines shouldn't be crossed, and on a site like this, personal coaster opinions are definitely one of those lines. I have crossed it before, and apologize to any and all I have offended or upset. From now on I, and I hope others who read this, will practice firm tongue in cheek. If someone says something that upsets me, instead of replying with an equally offensive post, just to be heard, I will say nothing about it, but express my opinion in a non-directed manner.
This is a fantastic site, with many loyal patrons. We all share a common love and interest, and should celebrant that with spirited debate, and not with a string of very biased opinions trying to make us come out on top. I hope others will lead by example with me, and make the moderator's jobs much easier. Thanks everyone, and keep on riding!

~TodD~
"God help us, our lives are in the hands of engineers..."
*** This post was edited by staticman00 on 5/2/2001. ***
I don't think there is anything wrong with strong opinions, as long as you allow other people their's. What I don't like is when someone attacks another because they disagree on a subject. I love hearing other's opinions, just don't flame me for mine.

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Charles M Schulz(1922-2000) You were the best!
RIP *** This post was edited by OutKast on 5/2/2001. ***
I think there's a big difference between opinions and flaming (name-calling, bashing, etc.). I agree with OutKast that there's nothing wrong with strong opinions and disagreement and such as long as it doesn't lead to trash talk. People should feel free to disagree and voice that disagreement to others as long as they do so without the immature flame war stuff.

Having said that, I'll admit that I'm guilty of stepping out of bounds in my posts on some occasions. I often try to come across clear and polite but it seldom works...something I need practice at I guess. :) So I also apologize to any "targets" out there.
Contrary to popular belief, it is okay to have a strong opinions on any subject. And it is okay to voice your opinions here on CoasterBuzz, as long as you follow the guidelines (FAQ's) of the forums! Those who flame or instigate flamming are not welcome here.

Sometimes, though, you should be prepared to defend your opinions in a constructive way. You will find that when the constructiveness mitigates into an aggressive tone, we'll close/delete that topic, or delete the offending posts.
staticman00's avatar
I meant this not to stop opinions, but maybe let people know that there is a difference between expressing an opinion, and supressing others. It seems simple, but that line can get blurred real fast, real easy. I have read things not directed at me, but at others, that made me feel uncomfortable. When things start getting personal in posts that started as being about roller coasters, I get turned off. Just my 2 cents...

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~TodD~
"God help us, our lives are in the hands of engineers..."

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