I agree - but it isn't necessarily confined to the "older posters". Too often a discussion takes place and, when someone posts something that is their opinion, and it is in contradiction to someone else's opinion, instead of debate and discussion brewing, insults start to fly. "You're an idiot if you think that," or, "You must be on drugs," or things of such ilk. And then more damage is created when someone [rightfully] takes offence to it - because then the standard, "It's a forum - toughen up," line gets trotted out.
We're all human beings here, and we're all people who love the Eels. We're not all always going to agree with everything - take Daniel Wagon as an example. Some loved him, some didn't rate him, others were indifferent. But to me there is no reason why the topic at hand can't be discussed without resorting to personal comments, tongue-in-cheek or not.
By the way, adding the qualifier, "It's a forum - lighten/toughen up," or, "It's just a joke," doesn't detract from the sting that some comments can have. I try not to take things too seriously here, but I am well aware I have blown up (and a few times, I'm afraid) simply because I am not used to that sort of discussion. Everyone's opinion is valid, as long as they can explain their point of view. For instance, I think Sefton Boy makes some very good points about Luke Burt. He doesn't rate Burt, but he illustrates why he doesn't, and that's fine for me. It's better than just saying, "Burt sucks," and leaving it there.
Anyway, the point is long live the Eels.
