Wow, what a fine thread! Seems many issues lurking here over the years, and especially recently, have been aired.
Ah, the "name thing." Indeed, there's a difference between posting anonymously and using a pseudonym. I appreciate the thoughts of those who spoke about this here. Personally, I have reasons, having to do with my professional life, for not posting under my name. Still, many, if not most, of the regulars here know exactly who I am and I've sure shared with them plenty via PM. I endeavor to give advice and share experiences with regard to aspects of the DB about which I believe I am well-versed. Most of you are far better players than I am. You will rarely, if ever, find me giving advice about technique. Enough about me.
For better
and for worse, everyone has a voice in an internet forum. I think it's always important to "consider the source." That's why I really encourage folks to fill out their profiles (and that even offends some). A newbie asks advice about bass-buying or brands. We've all seen it... a teenager with his first bass gets on and posts:
"I just got a XXXXX SR-15654 and it's the best bass for the money bar none. In fact, it's as good as a bass costing twice as much. I bought it from Mr. Fred Whosawhatzit and got great service and a fine deal."
Right after that, a player with decades of experience posts:
"I think you'd do well to consider brands A, B, and C for these reasons..."
Each of the posters deserves respect as a person. Should each post be given equal "respect" or equal weight? I don't think so. Now, when someone politely asks, "What is your experience with such matters?" I've found that, more often than not, it brings a flaming retort from the relative newbie.
People deserve respect but not all opinions do. Some lose sight of this. It's unfortunate that some whose opinions are disrespected (objectively and politely) take it as a personal affront. We're all entitled to our own set of opinions but not to our own set of facts. Given that we form our opinions on the basis of our own experiences and "sets of data," it is relevant to ask what that "data-set" is. Asking that question is not, in and of itself, insulting.
For sure, there's bad behavior on the part of all generations. I've sure said things that were unwise. Still, at least statistically, the "instant gratification" expectation often comes from younger members who just can't be bothered to read the stickies or to use the search function. To me, that shows a certain disrespect for this community as a whole.
I think of TB as a local bar where folks sit around and exchange information. There are the regulars who get to know each other over years, have inside jokes, and can rib each other in good humor. New folks are welcome to come and pull up a chair. They should be greeted with open arms. You wouldn't, however, stroll into a bar as a newcomer and start right off with, "Hey you fools, let me tell you what it's all about." Or... "Hey I want to know about this right now!" Sure the analogy breaks down if you push it too far but you get the picture.
I happen to agree with Troy's sentiments regarding the nature of TB and ridiculous threads. To me, it does matter. It affects how TB is perceived as a resource and it affects who will participate.
Well, perhaps I've gone on too long. I still love this place. Over the years, I've come to meet and know many new DB friends and have been fortunate to meet some wonderful people in person as a direct consequence of sharing our passion in these pages.
Happy holidays and new year to you all.
Les