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Apr-30-2005 13:58

Over the course of this site's growth and my observation of it, I have noticed certain difficulties people have with the basic nature of a public forum. Instead of spreading the argument over several threads, I thought I should post the actual definition and let us all talk. Here it is, courtesy of our good friend Merriam-Webster.

Main Entry: fo·rum
Pronunciation: 'fOr-&m, 'for-
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural forums also fo·ra /-&/
Etymology: Latin; akin to Latin foris outside, fores door -- more at DOOR
1 a : the marketplace or public place of an ancient Roman city forming the center of judicial and public business b : a public meeting place for open discussion c : a medium (as a newspaper) of open discussion or expression of ideas
2 : a judicial body or assembly : COURT
3 a : a public meeting or lecture involving audience discussion b : a program (as on radio or television) involving discussion of a problem usually by several authorities.

Apr-30-2005 17:11

On relevance, conversation is a fluid affair and evolves as it goes on. A good example is 'The Office' thread I started some time ago. My original intention was simply to find out what the American version was like, but it developed into an interesting discussion on differing types of humour. Trying to restrict the topics too much on threads really kills them, I think, although some balance is obviously required.

I have to agree with yourself and DaRu though, in that every member of the Sleuth community should be proud of the mature and enlightening use of the forum.

May-1-2005 04:27

Personally, this why I like discussion, even when it is different then my own interest or opinion. I find it an opportunity to learn. And the fact that it happens in a civil way here, is an opportunity in itself. An opportunity to learn, to think, to enjoy. I have little or no respect for people that say "I am right, just because." Every opinion, should be backed with a reason or an argumentation. Those type of opinions may cause me to leave my own opinions, because I know better after having listened to someone else. Some people think that changing your opinion is a weakness, it is of the reason or argumentation is wrong. But to me it is a strength, when it is based on a additional piece of knowledge you gained.

May-1-2005 04:29

I liked the Office discussion. Simply, because I never watched the office and may have found a new show I could enjoy. I also liked hearing what humour people like, it says a lot about a person, or a culture.