Well, I certainly don't mean to invite "contests" but hearty debates are good - as long as folks stick with the technical facts. Debating (sans any personal insults) is not arguing - yet some see it as such. And I think that is sad.
That said, since we cannot see facial expressions or actually "hear" the tone of voice, I think when it comes to technical discussions it is upon the reader to NOT interject what they think the tone is and just go by the words being written.
Conversations are two-way streets. Readers
must try to understand what the writer is saying, and
not read between the lines something not there. And as writers, we must write clearly to avoid misunderstandings - especially in technical writing. I try to do that - obviously not always successful and I apologize for that. I do try to use smilies when I think something might be taken the wrong way, but some still don't get it.
I also note this is a "forum". A forum by definition is an "open venue" where we speak to the crowd. So in that respect, most comments are not one-on-one conversations. So when speaking to the crowd, it is a challenge to not speak over the head of some and at the same time, not insult the experienced with something obvious.
I am a grumpy old retired Air Force Master Sergeant who spent over 20 years working in (literally and figuratively) and around
deadly electronics. "Barking out orders" was just a way of life or else someone might be killed. Many, especially those with no formal electronics training, forget or just never think about the fact that anything that plugs into the wall can kill!!!
That includes computers. So it is ingrained in me to convey my messages in precise terms. And unfortunately, that may be misinterpreted as arrogance or condescending. I assure all, that is not my attempt.
But I also note part of the problem seen way too often is there are some on this site who see any different viewpoint as a personal affront. That's just nonsense. Some also see their own anecdotal experience with one or two samples as universal proof that establishes some rule. They don't (or won't) see the big picture.
To be sure, I spend much of my time here at TPU because of all the diverse and extensive levels of expertise that congregate here! Yes, I come here to help and share what I have learned over the years. But the bonus is, I am constantly learning new things too from the other regulars and helpers here.
IT is industries within industries. There is always more to learn.
So to all, please do not read into what I say, something I did not say. I do try to choose my words carefully to avoid misunderstandings. And I do hate to be wrong so I do try to verify my facts before posting as I know someone here will call me out, if I am wrong.
Anyway, again, sorry if I offended anyone. Unless I call out by name with a personal insult, no insult was likely intended. It was just me trying to be concise on a technical level. These are technical forums discussing technical topics, after all. Not social chat rooms.
