I don't mind people who oppose my opinion, but it does get very aggravating when I see someone trying to deliberately get someone to fight with them. Seems to my recollection I hear the word "intelligent" being used from time to time on this site. But guess what? It doesn't take much intelligence to fight. Sometimes it's better to walk away than to keep the fires burning.

Suits me. I'm always up for a debate.

It depends, I guess.

Not at all, that appears to be part of the purpose of the site. There's always going to be a few fools who'll try to say that the Earth is not the 3rd planet from the sun: i.e. a few contrarian on purpose types. If you stick around you'll probably make a few 'enemies,' and, I have to say, there are indeed some truly humorless and self- congratulatory sorts on here, but for the most part it's quite refreshing and natural to have disagreements...just don't f*** with Moby Grape or Frankenberry cereal and it'll all be hunky dory...ummm...I'm being facetious...

Hehe, some people love taking me on no matter what the topic is. My fan club wars in particular have been a gas...

UPDATE: Oh yeah, Racist Roy has been exposed, too. I'll keep it to myself for now and see if he acts nice or gets silly. (your move, Roy)

Not at all. In fact, I am totally open to anyone challenging my opinion. But with me, there's a caveat to doing so, be prepared to respond with solid facts backing your assertions. Many times, some of us, myself included, make a "hit-and-run" opinion without totally fleshing out the viewpoint--that's when I usually get responses! But all doors are open and I certainly appreciate the challenge!

Well, I look at this this way. Someone down the line will oppose my opinion sooner or later, why waste my breath?

the point of being here is to give our own opinions so go right ahead.

This doesn't get my goat, it's one of the main reasons I come back here. My political views have evolved to this point (from flaming, raging liberal to stubbornly conservative) based on what I've lived, read, experienced and concluded. There are a few here, close to my age (and experience, maybe greater) with whom I disagree consistently. We each have our own funnel, through which all our experiences are poured, processed, distilled and laid out for observation (and, hopefully, thoughtful conclusion) and each of us decides where it all lands us on the political (or any other) spectrum. Being screamed at doesn't alter my viewpoint, rather it causes me to ignore whatever thoughtful ideas the sender may have but can't (or won't) express. Knowing a few of the items that went through HIS funnel, might make me question my conclusions. No guarantees. But screaming invectives and characterizing my viewpoint as narrow or stupid is like invading a fortress with a few pebbles.

I don't have a problem with this, though it's a lot more fun if the people who oppose my opinion on a given topic are able to effectively communicate WHY. I've definetly seen a lot of posts which just read...because. I value a lively debate with an open-minded person who can think for themselves, but I don't care much for arguing with close-minded people who are disagreeing just to disagree. Although watching them make fools of themselves can be fun...

i was thinking about this question differently until i read castlebee's comment. it is pretty funny when you make a statement as innocent and inoffensive as one about a snow day and still get unhelpfuls, that definitly happens to me from time to time. You feel like a person is just going down a list and clicking over and over again. its so ridiculous that it doesnt annoy me though. Also (somewhat unconnected) if a person seems to disagree with everything you say it may not be on purpose. I know sometimes I'll be going through a certain catagory and I my views will clash with a certain viewer on almost every topic. Thats just the way it goes sometimes.

In many cases, people don't even realize their doing it- that's how natural it becomes. Quite a few people don't even form an opinion on something until they see how someone they disagree with stands- this often holds true for the formation of political opinions. Many couldn't care less about the taxation of stock dividends but if they don't like Al Franken or Sean Hannity, they'll immediatly choose a position to the contrary. Those who go against the grain just to go against the grain are often easily spotted when you ask them why they take their chosen position. They'll respond with well...just because.

I was thinking mainly of people who will disagree with you simply because - at one time or another and usually unbeknownst to you they have become ticked off about something youve written. I value an honest opinion whether I agree with it or not. But when you write something as innocuous as, All kids need to experience a great snow day. and you immediately get unhelpful clicks I think it might just indicate a slight bias problem. More power to you if you enjoy that kind of thing I just dont see what good its doing anyone.

I don't mind this, just so long as they've got a good reason. Do they have anything valid to back them up? Or does their point consist solely of Nuh-uhhhh, you're wrong!?