To longtime DU members. How do you handle it? Serious question.

[Rabblevox]

I obviously am fairly new here, but not a n00b. I didn't expect to agree with every post, or have everyone agree with mine. I joined after lurking for awhile, and seeing some truly intelligent, insightful threads, and discussions I wanted to participate in, and add to.

But the level of vileness and stupidity I see here sometimes makes my teeth hurt. It's not that I'm thin-skinned, I can give and get a smack-down with no problem. It's the sheer amount of ignorance and evil that has me wondering.

So, to long-term members, how do you deal with it? Put all the idiots on ignore? Just stay out of certain forums? Go toe-to-toe every time? Take Prozac before you log on? Set up a punching-bag next to your computer?

I'd hate to bail (after all, I paid for a year full membership), but if I stay, I've got to find a way to stay while keeping my blood pressure in check.

Serious suggestions or thoughts gratefully appreciated.

[Swede]

1. Pick your fights,go to the lounge. Take breaks away from DU.

Drink.

[d_r]

4. Sometimes I share this picture. it is zen to me;

[defendandprotect]

49. Come on ... ??? Really....? Where does that come from??

[Kali]

55. it should be 17%, I think

don't you?

[pintobean]

62. All I know is

I got an 'A' on my test - 94.

[defendandprotect]

83. Well. sure as Hell, elites fear the intelligence of the average person --

That's why they're so anxious to destroy public education --

One of the last things they want is an educated public.

It was always the pattern of patriarchy to destroy knowledge because

most of it works against their interests -- that's why we get the

book burnings and burning down of libraries.

They've been especially concerned with preventing women, Jews, African Americans

from colleges, universities -- remember the quotas? Women were barred from

education and most professions!

And even though the Native American wasn't familiar with our language or writings

elites used it to their advantage to cheat and steal from them nonstop.

Even that wasn't enough, they had to set out to destroy the wisdom of the Native

American embedded in their culture -- mostly based on nature and their intelligence,

common sense.

Otoh, after 50 years of thowing petroleum products on our growing fields and spraying

them with pesticides and chemicals -- other than what they throw on that's systemic --

I'm wondering if we don't have brain damage happening?

The brain is the most sensistive part of the body and whatever impacks the body

negatively will first impact the brain.

[RKP5637]

94. Frankly, I think humans have been infected with a brain eating virus and it's

not yet been recognized as such and identified ... there may be no cure. You look at all of the stuff you mentioned and it's a giant WTF. How can there really be any significant intelligence to the human species.

One would think we might recognize in a huge universe we've got this one planet we're F'ing up left and right and work together. And in the big picture doing a huge disservice to the eventual survival of mankind. And how can anyone really relish in limited education and embracing ignorance and Stupidity. Stupidity comes in all forms.

[defendandprotect]

107. Wholeheartedly agree -- !! Some may think the planet is replaceable ... ???

Perhaps they think the great spaghetti monster in the sky will simply create a

new planet for us -- ?


Recall that the Joint Chiefs at one time were hedging their bets that we could

engage in all out nuclear war with Russia and we'd survive --

or at least a few of them would survive!


Feminists look at the pollution of the planet and speculate that patriarchy is banking

on NASA shooting us off to another planet -- another one to junk and move on from!!


The war on nature is so complete that it's impossible to say it isn't purposeful, imo.

And it is totally ignored -- !!

[themadstork]

We counteract that significant intelligence with immense greed.

Just finished reading about Thatcher and the coal union. Utterly depressed.

[geckosfeet]

98. Errr. The definition of mean average.

[defendandprotect]

108. That would be a very "mean" mean average -- !!!

Think we'll wait to find out where the poster got this info --

[geckosfeet]

173. JC on a stick. It is a mathematical definition. Half the population falls above the mean,

the other half falls below it.

It does not matter if you are talking about IQ, height, or weight.

Now, the entire matter of measuring IQ is a different kettle of fish altogether.

[defendandprotect]

174. If 100% of the population were Mensa IQ geniuses, but not all equally so ....

then 50% of the population would still be "below average intelligence" -- ?

So the post was meaningless game-playing -- OK -- !!

[geckosfeet]

187. Errp. No. Simply a matter of how you define IQ. The mean is the mean.

50% of the population are NOT geniuses. But if they were, they would be above the mean and the other other 50% would be below the mean.

Unless of course you define a super genius class, like your mensa genius. Then if 50% of the population were mensa geniuses, the other 50% would still be geniuses but they would also be below the mean.

See what I mean?

[defendandprotect]

197. It's still game-playing -- while the population may not all be Mensa geniuses ....

they may not necessarily either be very much less than that and therefore the

implied attack on the intelligence of 50% of the nation is ruse by the poster.


Further, we have no idea what intelligence may actually be, nor how to measure it --

Here's a sure bet, any kindergardner would be wise enough not to use

nuclear reactors to boil water for steam!


And, the idea that the most intelligent among us rise to make wise decisions for the

nation/world is also countervailed by reality -- i.e.

It's abhorrent that the culmination of three centuries of physics

should be a weapon of mass destruction


Or, as the wisdom of one lone woman put it --

A woman from the Bikini Islands upon the occasion of our testing atomic weapons by

dropping atomic bombs on her homeland --


"Americans are really smart about really stupid things" --




:nuke:

[geckosfeet]

198. How is a normal distribution 'game playing'? It is obvious. You have a mean

and half the population lies above it, half below it.

Where is the game?

[defendandprotect]

199. The original post ....

was game-playing to suggest that 50% of the population are insufficiently

intelligent to understand what's going on in our world --

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?
az=show_mesg&forum=439&topic_id=1060616&mesg_id=1060642

However -- time to move on!

Bye --

[Snoutport]

184. well, yeah, that's how they work....

and some of those guys are far far far away from the average...

[yawnmaster]

206. The average IQ is 100. That is how the IQ system works. 50% of the population have...

an IQ higher than 100, and 50% have an IQ of less that 100.

[JuniperLea]

211. And only 2% have an IQ that will get you into Mensa...

And not all Mensans are college educated, have degrees, are rich...

That's the point of Mensa... to try and get more geniuses better educated... intelligence is the ability to figure things out; knowledge is knowing a lot of things... combine the two and you get someone you can barely tollerate being in the same room with! LOL!

But yes, yours is the best answer.

[themadstork]

126. lame

[FarLeftFist]

150. RIGHT WING INFILTRATORS!

Is probably the reason for the negativity.

[999998th word]

156. Agree

[earthlight101]

168. burn the witch! n/t

[boppers]

2. Ignore is your friend.

It also helps to build up a mental profile of different posters, so, even if you disagree with them, you can understand their viewpoints.

[lisa58]

3. I have no idea what has offended you...

...but what I do is just check out posts that spark an interest. The best thing about the left is that we let each other go as far to the left or center as they want. We just assume they prefer people over money.

[Codeine]

5. Deal like an adult?

:shrug:

[tkmorris]

12. Yeah see... Oh never mind

[blueamy66]

176. Good answer.

I usually just chuckle and move on.

This is a message board, not real life.

Nobody knows jackshit about my real life so I take their jabs and barbs with a grain of salt. I love to read the holier than thou messages....they crack me up.

Just don't get so wrapped up in a message board that it effects your real life.

[ellie]

6. I have been here since the

beginning. I read for the headlines and the insight. There are several people here I don't agree with but I don't have anyone on ignore. Their predictability, as I said in another thread, is a comforting constant in an ever-changing world.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

7. This is a good question, and this is how I see the answer:

You've been here a couple of years, and it takes time to get used to the level of stupidity.

I've been here since 2005, and I'm used to it. I've also seen a LOT of extremely intelligent conversations and been lucky enough to become on- and off- line friends with some of those people.

THAT really helps. We are, after all, sort of a microcosm of our country, albeit one that normally tilts to the left.

Seeing the perspective for the long haul helps a lot.

I avoid some people. I just stay away. I've used ignore, but my normal curiosity gets the better of me, so...

Good luck! Take breaks if you find your anger and frustration getting the better of you.

And play in the non-political forums. Photography is a good one; I'm often there. The Lounge can be cool too.

:hi:

[annabanana]

102. MizCalPeg speaks the truth.

The years just fly by if you learn to roll with it.

[Raine]

161. VERY good advice! nt

:thumbsup:

[bananas]

183. Good answer. nt

[Warren DeMontague]

8. I think I've used the ignore function maybe once since I got here.

Generally, I think it's a cop-out.

If someone pisses you off that much, take a break.

[cherokeeprogressive]

9. You PAID for a year "full membership"? How much does Skinner charge these days?

It better not be less than I paid, that's for sure.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

13. I think he means the star...

:hi:

[cherokeeprogressive]

17. I know... I'm feelin' frisky tonight LOL.

Love Ya Peg!

[tkmorris]

20. I assume he pitched in a few bucks

And thus gets the star and other associated privileges for the standard year. Not really mysterious.

:shrug:

[mucifer]

10. I think it's important for everyone to think for a moment before you post

I have stopped myself from posting things at times because even tho my opinion might be a certain way, I realize it could be hurtful to some and it's just not that important.

But, remember, this is a discussion forum. People are here to discuss. We don't all have to agree.

[notesdev]

11. fuck 'em if they can't take a joke

Don't try to fight elemental forces (e.g. emotional arguments), just acknowledge them and move on. One of the most interesting things I have learned about human behavior is that your average person runs 99.9% of the time on autopilot.

[proud2BlibKansan]

14. We're supposed to be paying for membership here?

Damn I need to pay my dues.

[hfojvt]

15. that depends

when you say "stupidity that makes my teeth hurt" are you talking about my posts or the posts of other people?

Some of the 'vileness' is how people deal with the perceived vileness and stupidity of others. They call other people on their stupidity, often in the most cutting way they can think of.

Mostly I try to respond to 'stupidity' or errors and misinformation with facts. Sometimes snark-covered facts, which like coconut is a chocolate piece, may render the whole thing inedible, but I try to stay good humored about it. I'm not always sure I succeed.

[tularetom]

16. It ain't real life, it's an internet forum

Don't confuse the two.

[deutsey]

165. Yep...DU is a great source of information (political and cultural)

But it's just an Internet forum.

If you find yourself getting too hung up on it, it's time to turn it off and plug into the real life going on around you.

[Curmudgeoness]

18. I run into assholes everywhere, why should I think this place is

any different. My best tool, though, is to read all the other posts where the person/people infuriating me are being dealt with. That reassures my faith in humanity.

[RKP5637]

88. Yep, well said, the world is full of assholes everywhere. Sometimes I think

the count has gone up over the years. I never saw DU listed as an asshole free zone, but it sure is better than some of the groups I've been in and quit. I often see similar, the "person/people infuriating me are being dealt with. That reassures my faith in humanity."

[w8liftinglady]

19. There have been times we've all met with disagreement here.

When my kid was in Iraq and I was SO vehemently anti-war,I was still very pro-military. It is a difficult stance for a pacifist...but I was a mom first.
Pick and chose the subjects you respond to. I tend to keep mine to veteran and healthcare causes.It is my knowledge base,I guess.
I've left for a few weeks when I separated from my second partner. I came back.

Worse comes to worse,go to your state and stick around there a bit.
Peace.
Beth

[jpak]

21. Toe-to-Toe

Pity the Fools

yup

:evilgrin:

[pacalo]

22. I seldom reply to comments that I disagree with but when I do, I make an effort

to reply in a respectful manner.

[patricia92243]

27. You are a nice person :)

[RKP5637]

101. Yeah, that's what I do too. I come to DU to learn about many things and to

try to support those I feel have good viewpoints. To me, it's not worth arguing on DU, I can find lots of fights to pick without coming on DU, so I come to DU to try and find like minded people. I find a lot.

[Scottybeamer70]

23. I'm with you rabblevox.......

I've considered leaving too. I cannot believe all of the gutter language
I see on this site. I have some on ignore.......doesn't bother me.....
pretty much know what they will say anyway...no point in looking at it.
After the quakes in Japan, I wrote a heartfelt poem about the people
in Japan. I think 6 people noticed. Guess some gutter language might
have helped propel it to the most read!
There obviously are some very intelligent and informed people on this
site. All the nonsense just gets to be a trifle old.

[sabrina 1]

77. If you have a link to your poem, I would like to read it.

Sometimes people just don't see the good stuff as things move so fast, but if I had seen your poem I most likely would have commented on it, as I'm sure would others.

Anyhow, thanks for writing it, and for thinking of those poor people whose lives will never be the same :-)

[CJCRANE]

24. Don't try to have the last word.

If you have an opinion or a fact to add, make your point and move on.

[LuvNewcastle]

68. +1

I used to think I had to have the last word in an argument but I finally realized how childish I was. You don't have to respond to everyone who comments on your posts. If you think someone is being belligerent and nasty, it isn't against DU rules to tell them so. Some people aren't going to like you, regardless of what you say. Don't let it bother you.

[Enrique]

120. but also don't hit-and-run

if someone answers you or challenges you, you shouldn't necessarily just ignore them.

[gkhouston]

144. The only person who gives a crap about getting the last word is

the jerk you're arguing with. Nobody else really cares. Neither should you.

[pintobean]

25. Using the word 'evil' to describe people here

will probably attract a few sharks.

[PeaceNikki]

28. EVIL sharks!!

Oh wait, they're all evil. Wait no, that's bears.

[pintobean]

33. Oh, great! Now you've gone and done it.

Do you know how many users have 'bear' in their user name? You'd better just pack up camp and hide or high-tail it.

[mrcheerful]

36. Hey I have a nasty snark bite was that you?

Edited, oh sharks ok never mind.

[pintobean]

41. Biting someone with a user name like yours

would be a bad omen. You made me lol.

[mrcheerful]

60. I like when people say that my name has something to do with some of my darker posts

I was given the name by an 80 year old lifer while attending AA meetings inside of a state prison. He called me a cheerful little prick because I was always making light of some of my darker alcoholic actions. Like I once got woke up at 7am by the cops asking how my car ended up on the neighbors front porch. So when I talked about my drinking free time I put it this way.............I have noticed since I stopped drinking I don't have cops showing up at my door at 7 am asking me why my neighbors were parking their front porch under my car.

The old guy then asked well how can you stand being around people like me who got drunk and shot his wife and best friend. I asked him what made him so very different then I, there are missing holes in my life where I don't remember days, weeks, month and one year, 1977, just because I wasn't in prison just meant one of 2 things, I didn't do any crimes or 2 I just never got linked to a crime. Tears welled up in the corner of his eye, he said thank you for understanding that I'm not a bad person and from now on your Mr.Cheerful to me, it stuck. Oh btw, at the ripe old age of 83 he passed on to a better life after having survived prison since 1961, that was in the year 1999, he had just received word from his lawyer that in 60 days he was being transfered to an old folks home. I had met him in 1996.

[pintobean]

66. Great story. Thanks Mr.Cheerful!

[Buns_of_Fire]

175. "Cheerful Little Prick" -- if you don't mind, I'm going to file that away...

Someday, somewhere, I'm going to want to register in a forum online. When that day comes, I now know what my username's going to be.:hi:

[astral]

196. That was a snarky comment.

LOL
People need to be able to DEBATE topics without HATING each other for having a polarized point of view to their own.

Usually people do not convert other people's beliefs but both sides are of interest. There are some very controversial topics I do not have my mind made up on, and possibly never will. It is useful to see both sides of an argument regardless of whether one appears to be the Right Way of Thinking and the other side appears to be just wrong on every level .... we are all here to live and learn . . .
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
and CHANGE ! (gasp!)

[dimbear]

37. What you got against plantigrades? n/t

[pintobean]

44. Nuthin'

I had to use the on-line dictionary to make sure, though. :P

[PeaceNikki]

43. Whatev. The bears can get in line with my other haters.

Godless killing machines, the lot of 'em.

[dimbear]

54. I used to have Pooh as my avatar.

It terrorized other posters, had to pull back.

[hootinholler]

192. So you replaced it with a brown bear?

Somehow apropos.

-Hoot

[Guy Whitey Corngood]

209. They're evil only if they have "freakin' lasers" attached to their heads. nt

[seabeyond]

26. it has changed me, which probably is not a good thing. i see people differently, in tuned with du

and that is not RL, or not the RL i have ever lived in. maybe if i was more social, it would not effect me this way. there is a lot of plus too. i take nothing personal. the people i know that matters not, in discussion i ignore, dont respond to, but i dont put anyone on ignore. (my thing). some people are healthier ignoring.

there is so much info on du

and often times, du makes me laugh

[mrcheerful]

29. Just learn the troll tale tells it is really that simple, I think I only ignored 1 poster

but that was because he/she always demanded links to my posts even when I was posting from personal experience, some trolls think every post has to lead to links = tale tell. Another trick is trolls have multiple names, both sexes, the tale tell on that is sentence make up and a certain word being misspelled the same way, I saw one that time after time posted UBL instead of OBL for Bin Laden under all his screen names. There are a few wise enough to not give themselves away until they report back to Freeperville how they fooled DU.

The one thing about trolls is their ego, trolls will stalk people on a topic into other topics, they refuse to admit they were wrong. The thing is posting on public forums requires thick skin and its up to you to decide how much you can take, that said, I have seen 0 posters attack people here in DU on what they wrote about their personal life, weather it was being on welfare or being disabled or even being a former member of the GOP. We are a big party that welcomes all into our tent DU reflects that very well.

Edited to add.........sometimes I can post for weeks and not get a reply or when I do get a reply I get the snarky replies which I usually do one of 2 things, do research then admit when I was wrong or 2 laugh at the poster when research shows my post was more correct then theirs, the key is don't try to be right 100% of the time. I remember when Japanese cars had the problem of taking off on people, having never owned or driven a car that wasn't built in the 60's you could turn off the engine without locking the steering wheel or having the delay stop engine feature I got educated, lol.

[pintobean]

48. Got a link?

:) I've given this one to answer that:
http://www.google.com/

[PeaceNikki]

52. Did you lose your Google CD ROM?

Is my standard reply. In order to get the full effect, you have to be old and young enough to remember that sweet spot in history between shelves of reference books and Ask Jeeves when Microsoft Encarta seemed so cool.

[jillan]

30. I just walk away & realize that the person who is verbally insulting me has no idea who I am, what

my life is and has been, and is just someone who happens to be on the same website as I am.

In other words, I brush it off. Does it get to me? Sometimes, but very short lived once I realize that I just let a complete stranger get to my emotions ;)

[girl gone mad]

31. As others have said, ignore list.

It really helps.

[Rabblevox]

32. thank you all for intelligent, insightful, funny, and/or snarky responses. That's what I like! n/t

[The Magistrate]

34. A Bit Of Rousing Sing-Along, Sir, Usually Tides Me Past the Worst Bits....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d43g8unp7Wk

[Kurovski]

149. "...But I didn't hear nobody pray..."

LOL. "Whiskey and blood all around you." Sounds like DU, alright.:rofl:

[kentuck]

163. Magistrate, I remember when Roy Acuff made that song popular..

No, I didn't hear nobody pray.

[LaurenG]

35. You have picked up on the energy around here, cultivate friends

and stay away from pot stirrers and yes ignore is an outstanding feature. I have put more people on ignore this past year than ever before and I've left them there. And that's saying something for me to do this.

[Buzz Clik]

38. Stupid f**king question.

:D

It's not easy, and it is not unusual to blow a fuse on occasion.

Try to resist responding in kind. When you realize that you are turning into one of us, take a vacation and get your perspective again.

[Solly Mack]

39. I take inspiration from Dr. Seuss.

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind."

Dr. Seuss

Also, it helps that I've never much gave a flying fuck about people (in general) liking me or disliking me. I don't mean that to be hateful...I just never saw the percentage in adapting to other people's perception(s) of what I should be...or should/shouldn't say. I do try to be polite, however. Sometimes I fail. :D

All that said...just roll with it. We've all had good days and bad days on DU.

Oh, and I do avoid some forums...just ain't worth the tummy acid to do otherwise.

[Ian David]

40. I have a long ignore list. n/t

[Solly Mack]

42. It's a famous ignore list.

because it is so long... :)

[Ian David]

45. Yeah, I've whipped it out in public a few times. n/t

[stevenleser]

63. I think mine is longer. ~200 or so. n/t

[Ian David]

178. I think mine is bigger. n/t

[LoZoccolo]

97. Mine had over nine hundred people on it at one time. n/t

[Kurovski]

151. That's impressive. reminds me of the old "loaves and fishes" story.

Biblical.

[Ian David]

177. Yours is probably bigger than mine, but I'm okay with that. n/t

[MineralMan]

46. A thick skin is sort of a requirement here. There's a wide range

of opinion on DU. You have to roll with the punches when someone disagrees with you emphatically. Just stick you whatever guns you're carrying and maintain some equilibrium. Ignore those who you can't stand and debate with those you can.

[defendandprotect]

47. If you pay any attention to world affairs, you will have HBP, imo ... !!!

But the level of vileness and stupidity I see here sometimes makes my teeth hurt. It's not that I'm thin-skinned, I can give and get a smack-down with no problem. It's the sheer amount of ignorance and evil that has me wondering.

Now -- for all I know, you're talking about posts I like -- and perhaps you admire posts

I dislike -- ???

But presuming we think alike ... then, yes, put people on ignore.

I've had a rule that someone had to be disingenuous before I did that --

I have probably about 70 people on ignore now -- HOWEVER .... as I go around

the website I only see a few "ignored" here and there. So, I can only assume

that those I've put on "ignore" have either departed or have come back with

a new username? I'd guess that right now I see "ignored's" equal to about 10

posters -- maybe 12 at the most -- and that the majority of them used to be in

9/11 forum -- but I think maybe now there is an even split.

Whatever you think and do, hope that your DU experience will be positive!!


:)

[rbrnmw]

50. I just live and let live

There are way bigger mountains for me to climb than that

[RKP5637]

105. +1, n/t

[yurbud]

51. could you be more specific about what particular comments and threads bother you?

if they are from the right of center crowd, they are a tiny, tiny minority that are very skilled at making their numbers appear far larger here than they really are.

As annoying as they are, I do get the impression the moderators root out those who are most obviously posting PR talking points and programmed glib responses to those who sincerely question them or even ask them to substantiate their arguments.

[Peacetrain]

53. I know the feeling

and have gotten it from time to time myself:fistbump:

[RebelOne]

56. Hang in there. It will get better. n/t

[onenote]

57. look at it as being educational

[FLPanhandle]

58. A discussion board argument gets you emotionally upset?

Sorry. I've had a few give and takes here, but I can't imagine one ever causing anything like the reactions you shared.

If your blood pressure goes up, the problem is probably more you than the board.

[krabigirl]

59. Remembering that it is the internet/having a sense of humor helps. also, the ignore feature.

[PeaceNikki]

61. .

[immoderate]

64. Rule: Withhold judgment.

If you don't judge, then you can't be pissed.

--imm

[brooklynite]

65. I call people on it ( and then get beaten up)...

...but since I know I'm respected by the people that matter, I don't let it bother me.

[OHdem10]

67. Putting people on ignore defeats the purpose of having a Website

I am a real old timer and read just most of the posts.

You have to learn not to take things seriously. Check posts
and learn what you can. Understand that people are not
going to agree.

Any place you go in life, there will be cliques. people
who have to cling together to affirm each others worth.

There are people who talk past each other, never really
hear what people are really saying.

DU is a great place. It requires belief in yourself and
a little bit thick skin.

Do not deliberately say or write things that you know
will antagonize others. By the same token do not become
so inhibited you do not express yourself.

It takes a while, to settle in, good luck.

[BobbyBoring]

82. I'm with you on that

You can't reach a person you ignore. Some may be unreachable, but every now and then, there's a EUREKA moment and suddenly, all is right with the world~

[cherokeeprogressive]

99. Ya miss some really funny shit that way. n/t

[Maru Kitteh]

69. I remind myself that it's *only an internet message board!* Really. It's just DU.

DU is a pastime, not a universe.

[JHB]

A combination of things...

...but you'll have to find what works for you.

Part of it is picking where you want to "hang out" during the times you are here. While I might go anywhere following something that looked interesting on the home- or discussion-pages, but when I'm just browsing it's usually GD or Political Video, plus a couple of the (mostly) nonpolitical hobby/interest forums. One is only "in" for so long, so you've just got to choose where, and it might as well not be places that will guarantee a fight.

I only use "ignore" for a very few things (mostly to filter out some people who routinely post videos I have no interest in), since I'm perfectly capable of ignoring people the old fashioned way, and sometimes even people whose opinions I usually don't find worthwhile will have a point worth considering.

Have a thick skin and/or let things roll off you. Understand that you're just not going to convince some people. And everyone acts badly from time to time. Nobody drives you more nuts than family, and the "DU family" can be the same way sometimes, and a lot of the same "keeping peace" tactics can be involved. Including, occasionally, "I had a lot of help from Jack Daniels."

Keep in mind that the real audience isn't your "opponent" but all the other people reading. You're responsible for what you post and no one else, so conduct yourself reasonably as you see it, and don't sweat anyone else. Don't get into tit-for-tat sniping, and learn to just pause before posting; if only to avoid thoughtless or unproductive "angry posts".

DU has moderators for a reason. If what someone is posting is (you think) breaking DU rules on content or civility, alert on the post, don't "retaliate". The mods may not agree that it's a violation, or may not come to a consensus, or it might take a while to do so. They're just volunteers trying to balance the free expression of information and opinions while preventing the meltdowns that can occur from the clashes that will inevitably result. (full disclosure: I'm not currently a mod but I served as one on the two previous mod terms)

Always keep in mind that what we do here is both very important and not important at all. We trade information, have discussions, provide a reminder to each other that we're not alone, have perspectives that can challenge certain assumptions we've had, and help coordinate real action. But it, itself, is not real action, it's just an anonymous internet message forum.

I've been here since 2001, so obviously I think it's worth sticking around. We're all trying to put this country on a better course than it's been on for the last few decades. We will often disagree -- strongly -- as to what that means exactly and how it should be done, but we'll only do that by engaging, not disengaging. And that means sticking together ... even when you want to strangle that idiot who doesn't know what the hell he's talking about. :evilgrin:

Find your path, grasshopper.

[JHB]

72. #70? Man, how long did it take me to compose that?

[BillyJack]

146. :thumbsup:

'family' is the worst & best to try and get along with.....

[theophilus]

70. Learn. Laugh. Lounge. DU can be wonderful and very helpful to

the individual. Whatever floats your boat is available....pretty much. At the end of the day, though, don't take much here too seriously. Although important to us, in the great scheme of things the DU experience is ephemeral (at best). It will inspire great things that individuals might do but don't get too emotionally entangled. We are the half-naked, painted fans in the stands yelling out plays that the coach BETTER use!

[Hosnon]

71. Realize that this is a message board.

Important things are discussed here and I love it. But it is one of the easiest things to walk away from (corollary to what facilitates the vitriol).

[stevedeshazer]

73. Be cool, be kind to others, take deep breaths.

Then stomp the living shit out of everyone you disagree with.

[shanti]

74. it didn't use to be this way

but sadly, DU has changed a lot in the past 10 or so years. i've been here for a long time and many of the brilliant, and well respected DU'ers are long gone.

you may want to utilize the ignore feature (i do - a lot!). some people just feel the need to be nasty, i know i don't have time for that. i come here for respite, not arguments.

ymmv

[CreekDog]

75. I have the most impatience with people who have an unstated agenda

and i'm sure that impatience shows.

as for the clueless posts about things like old stamps --i find that stuff endlessly entertaining and it brightens my day.

[Texasgal]

76. rule one, above all else

just don't take an annoymous message board so serious. Otherwise, you'll be fine!

[Modern_Matthew]

78. I usually speak my mind and never read the replies.

That has led to a couple of people PMing me in fits of rage. I didn't read those, either... but the subject lines made it obvious.

[ErikJ]

79. De-Sensititivity Training at RW Hornet's Nest

My favorite places to post are RWing hornet's nests like Fox nation Breitbart etc. I am often the only one there and its like killing fish in a barrel when you calmly just post the facts. I'm a teacher at heart I guess. I'm sure if you can handle that you can handle anything with ease and calm at DU.

[MadBadger]

80. Sarcasm and the Sports Section

[rug]

81. Don't use R/T as a template.

It has a particularly high concentration of assholes.

[LAGC]

89. Judge much?

What a fine upstanding example of a Christian you are.

:rofl:

[rug]

90. I observe far more than I judge.

Nice to see you outside R/T.

[NYC_SKP]

84. A few of us became moderators and it taught us a few things about patience and...

...the human condition.

:wow:

More than anything, remember that it's a discussion board.

An awesome fucking discussion board, and sometimes frustrating, true, but still just a discussion board on the Internet nonetheless.

Cheers!

:P

[elocs]

85. That you are fairly new is not obvious. I seen DUers here for years with a low post count

and I've seen others manage to pile up 1000 post in just a month's time. So the 1000+ post count does not really mean much anymore.

Myself, I liberally use the ignore function--it is there for a reason. It's a personal choice and I've heard that Democrats like choice. :bounce:

[RagAss]

86. Relax...it's all Showbiz !

[KT2000]

87. here's the deal

there a thousands of post to go through on this board. There are really only a very few that are really outrageous but they get a lot of attention and they seem to affect us more deeply than the thoughtful posts. When it gets out of hand, the mods lock the thread.
I just try to remember that the overwhelming majority are reasonable posts and you can't beat DU for up to date information.

When all else fails - go to the Lounge and join the cat threads - they are all about the love.

[Hissyspit]

91. Tomorrow is another day.

[dionysus]

92. all i can say is you get used to after a while.

douchebag.

(just kidding)

:hi:

[Rabblevox]

158. lol!

[Skidmore]

93. Evil?

[geckosfeet]

95. I take heart in knowing that for the most part, DU is a sanctuary

for democrats of many leanings - liberal, progressive, conservative socialist and on. There is no ONE type of democrat. And they all have something to bring to the table even if I don't agree with them on some things.

[Cleita]

96. Ignore and hide a thread goes a long way in

improving your experience. I find that my ignore list gets shortened regularly with the offenders getting tombstoned. However, there is always a new bunch of vile and stupid to contend with. Also, little DU vacations help when you get too much vileness thrown your way, especially when you have an opinion that isn't in the mainstream of thought. Even the administrators admit to taking DU breaks when they feel overwhelmed. Even if you stay away awhile, usually you will come back especially when epic events happen in the news, because it's hard to find a message board that equals DU. Also, we have some really great posters and some famous ones who are members so it makes all the vitriol seem less offensive in the big picture.

[hobbit709]

100. don't sweat the small shit.

[JVS]

103. Massive ignore lists are the way to go.

[steve2470]

104. Don't expect to change any minds

Yes, some here do change their minds on an issue. However, it's the exception to the rule from what I see.

Type out your very best argument, with facts and links. Then... let it go. Beyond that is only frustration, imho. Good luck and happy DU'ing :)

[quinnox]

106. It can seem like a boxing ring at times

Sometimes people will jump all over your posts and be outraged for whatever reason.
You can either engage them, which can be fun occasionally if in the right mood, or ignore them.

That said, you eventually start to notice the "troublemakers", the ones who always have spiteful or nasty things to say, those you can safely ignore. If someone never has a positive word to say, why bother. I feel sorry for them, maybe they are just miserable people or something. And sooner or later they end up getting banned anyway quite often I've noticed, because its not just you who notices, its mods and admins who don't like those kind of negative folks who create toxic atmospheres on the discussion board.

So all the advice given so far seems good to me. For there are thoughtful people who have polite ways of expressing themselves, they do exist on here. Those are the ones to pay attention to, and their really are some notable people who have a high intelligence level that I have learned from by reading their posts. Ignore those who have a pattern of being snide and that do quick one post hits with little content other than a juvenile jibe, you can ignore them either literally with ignore feature or figuratively by skipping over their posts. The tricky ones are those who have both, sometimes good arguments and positive things to say, other times full on snark and being super confrontational. Those you just deal with the best you can. And of course its only just a message board on the internet in the final analysis, so keep a proper perspective.

[PeaceNikki]

109. Stay away from controversial topics like fried chicken

[dimbear]

194. Certain topics just bring out the worst. Example: barbecue.

Plenty of others too.

[dimbear]

195. Certain topics just bring out the worst. Example: barbecue.

Plenty of others too.

[woo me with science]

110. Sometimes it's fun to play with people.

:evilgrin:

[Lydia Leftcoast]

111. There are certain topics I just don't engage on anymore

and certain people I have on "pretend" ignore. (I don't actually have them on ignore, but I ignore them anyway.)

[proud patriot]

112. I usually respond thusly

"HOW RUDE" or I'll alert on the over the top stuff.
If one member is completely annoying I'll ignore them.

[Boojatta]

113. First, what category am I in?

If I'm one of the idiots who contribute vileness and stupidity to DU, then your question isn't for me.

If I'm in the category of good folks, then you have a question for me, but it would be quite difficult for me to answer your question. Indeed, it might be so difficult and frustrating that I could be tempted to give up and bail out from the good category to the bad category. ;)

If I may be of some slight help, look for whatever amusing angles you can find. Dostoyevsky was good at that. You might learn a bit by reading his works.

[bluedigger]

114. It is what it is.

[Kurovski]

152. And sometimes kitty says this:

[Starry Messenger]

115. You couldn't pay for this kind of entertainment.

If internet rubbernecking is your game, this is the place. Occasionally we sneak in a little politics.

[Phentex]

116. Like looking at an optical illusion...

it becomes clear over time.

[Mz Pip]

117. I've been here

since 2001. I'm an oldbie, I guess.

Things I have learned:

Don't post while drinking.

Sometimes things aren't worth fighting over, or at least not worth raising your blood pressure over. Don't let random people on an anonymous message board push your buttons. For some that is the only entertainment in their lives. Not worth the hassle.

I've done pretty well. I've had a couple of posts deleted by the mods (don't post while drinking) but that's not so bad for 10 years. A couple of people have had me on ignore. Seriously, if they have me on ignore, they probably have half the forum on ignore.

I come here for news since this is the best place to find links to everything that is happening around the world.

Welcome.

[flvegan]

118. We're all in the same gang.

Here's the best advice I can give you on this: comment/opine to the post, not the poster. In other words, if someone here is of a different opinion on a topic, don't drag it around the entire site. That way, a post or a thread might get your ire up, but you don't have to feel that ire every time you see that name of the poster. I have very opinionated beliefs on a few things that fly in complete opposition to what others here think/believe. I argue/fight/whatever with them on that topic. I'll be the very first person to call them brilliant on something else they post that's a different topic, because it is. The nice thing is that once you get past it and agree to disagree, you'll find yourself clowning with them from time to time about those very same disagreements.

We're all on the same side (well, outside of the infiltrators and true disruption artists) at the end of the day. We're all in the same gang.

[REP]

119. Ever heard of Usenet? This ain't shit.

[Renew Deal]

122. Good point.

lol

[Renew Deal]

121. I don't see large amounts of "ignorance" and "evil" on DU.

If you really think DU is evil, then it might not be for you.

That said, you ask interesting questions. I have been here nearly 8 years, so I think I have a good idea how this place operates.

how do you deal with it? I understand that DU is a large community. Todays ideological allies are tomorrows adversaries depending on the issue. In MOST cases people are being sincere. You have to understand that in a place as large as DU, some people will agree, some will disagree. I think if everyone agreed, DU would be boring and uninformative.

Put all the idiots on ignore? As I said earlier, todays idiots are tomorrows geniuses. I don't have anyone on ignore and never have. I feel that it would take away from the DU experience. I want to know what people say even if I won't agree. Ignore is a way of prejudging that I don't believe in.

Just stay out of certain forums? Maybe. If you can't handle crazy conspiracy bullshit, stay out of the 9/11 forum. If you can't control yourself when discussing Israel/Palestine, Guns, or even Sports, stay away.

Go toe-to-toe every time? Hell no! I learned my lesson on this one. I went toe to toe when I got here regarding the 2004 primary. I learned that's not necessary. Sometimes I just don't say anything even if I really want to.

Take Prozac before you log on? Haven't tried this one.

Set up a punching-bag next to your computer? If DU bothers you that much, then it makes sense to take a break. Another option is to hit the Lounge. That's what it's there for. Or go to the topic forums. You'll usually find published material there rather than DUer opinion.


I hope you stay. :pals:

[WorseBeforeBetter]

123. I can't imagine letting an internet discussion board affect my blood pressure.

Do other boards get you worked up? What about the Comments section at YouTube? (Now, THERE'S "stupidity" and "vileness.") The "idiots" can be highly entertaining, but if they get to you, gloss over them or put them on ignore. How do you deal with any "ignorance" and "evil" you encounter offline? (Seriously, "evil" at DU? LOL)

There's a lot to be learned at DU, from some highly knowledgeable posters. And since it is an open board, anyone can join, and there are those just looking to stir the pot. Paid trolls, Michelle Malkin goons, Dittoheads, who knows. You'll pick up on personalities, patterns, agendas, etc., so you can tailor your experience, making it less stressful to you.

[Occulus]

124. It's very, very easy.

There's a little red X next to every poster's username, alongside the links to their journal, their mail, etc. Avail thyself of the blood-colored cross, brother.

I know some people are averse to its use because they want to be exposed to differing views, don't mind if people disagree, etc., and etc. What you need to know is that there are several people on DU- some of them very longtime members- who are not posting here in good faith. They are trolls, and the longer they've been here, the more sophisticated a troll they are. Fredda Weinberg and vadawg (both now long-banned) spring suddenly to mind.

Identifying trolls is a different story, and one's ability to ID a troll rises as one spends more time online. Having had the experience of using Mosaic when it was the only real option, I can comfortably say that I know a troll when I see one.

My Ignore list is correspondingly long and occasionally surprising. Stick around long enough, and yours probably will be as well.

[Renew Deal]

127. I remember Fredda

Geez she was tough. I wonder if she's still around in another form, but I haven't seen anything like here. I'm pretty sure you can't read my message right now. lol

[NotThisTime]

125. I'm not new, but I do ignore a bit.....

[alfredo]

128. If irritated, I go somewhere else for a bit. Most my time is

at the Photography group. Not much drama there.

The beauty, and strength of the Democratic party is our diversity of people and opinions.

[dana_b]

129. move on

a couple of times I have just refused to acknowledge their comments. It just isn't worth the time and my blood pressure is almost under control - yay! Remember, there is no shame in using the "Ignore" button.

[themadstork]

130. Read ralph waldo emerson

And maybe sleep in the lawn. Get a kitty.

[Sheepshank]

131. It's almost painfully predictable who answers or posts on a stuck meme.

It's pretty easy to see there is a specific agenda. Those people generally carry very little sway and are easily ignored. oooh I take that back, occassional they post something particularly inane that one just can't help but respond to.

Look for the occasional openings and have fun with it. Eventually you see how irrelevant they end up being. No point in putting them on ignore because you may miss a golden nugget of a magnificent response....and you want that response to make perfect sense as it related to the inane comment.

[Name removed]

132. Deleted message

Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.

[Puregonzo1188]

133. Well I've never put anyone on ignore, even people who make my blood boil, but

I do avoid the Israel/Palestine forum like the plague.

[BillyJack]

134. Recognize friends and enemies.......

Do good/post good thoughts when you can.

This is a PUBLIC message board....it ALL goes into your 'permanent record'. It REALLY does now.... :rofl:

[Cali_Democrat]

135. Use ignore

Although I rarely use ignore and I've only got 2 people there.

[hulka38]

136. I don't exactly know where you're coming from

but coming to the conclusion that what you write will probably not convince anyone of anything here is a good start.

[Zorra]

137. I don't understand; is there a problem?

I don't have any trouble.

[emilyg]

138. DU is a tiny, teeny part of life.

[Kurovski]

153. Wh...WHAT?!

[emilyg]

154. ....

:hug: :hug:

[Kurovski]

157. That's better, because...

you scared me! :hug: :D

[JCMach1]

139. I have never hidden anyone... just turn down the noise and do something else

If it's bothering you.

Seriously, back away from the laptop...

[Lugnut]

140. I've been here since early 2001.

Ignore the junk.

[joshcryer]

141. Welcome to the internet.

Vileness to be expected.

[TorchTheWitch]

142. it's an internet forum, not your life

The internet is full of idiots and angry people. It can be interesting and even enlightening but it isn't your life.

I never really understood how people get so emotionally involved in stuff said by strangers on the internet.

[customerserviceguy]

143. All I can say is

even though I've only been here since 2004, and may not qualify in some eyes as a long-timer, is that I celebrate the fact that DU embraces a wide variety of opinions, as long as people are reasonably civil to each other.

My few voyages to the dark side (a/k/a Freeperville) have shown me that they are not as tolerant as we are of a diversity of thought. Rejoice in that, and maybe the blood pressure thing will work out.

[wickerwoman]

145. Don't get sucked into conversations with trolls.

When you've been here awhile you can see them coming from a mile off.

It's the same 10-15 people who answer everything you say with :eyes: or :rofl:.

You can ignore them if you like. I prefer waiting for them to slip up and show their true colors and then alerting on them.

I'm not sure I would call anyone on DU "evil". There are some people with obvious agendas, some paid shills, some people with poor social skills, and some people who are very, very young (and not just chronologically). It's good practice for making allowances for people in the real world. Dealing with an asshole I 90% agree with is a good way to hone my arguments for the assholes I only 5% agree with.

And at the end of the day, it's just a discussion forum. Take a break when you need to and come back when you feel like it.

[Rex]

147. Funny, I never have any problems with the idiots I encounter here.

They are insignificant bugs. Hell, I don't think in my years here that I've ever had another poster really 'get to me'. Sounds like someone got to you and pressed all your buttons or maybe many people did. Who cares, faceless people on the internet are insignificant bugs - including myself. WHY CARE!? This is why I have spent years here laughing at all the stupid posts and outrage from people that I could careless about and then it all vanishes...poof! Time to take out the trash. Poof, gone.

Now for the other 99% of the time, I really enjoy this place and all the amazing posters here.

[Keith Bee]

148. Haven't been here all that long, myself, so I won't unrec

But this post is suckuppity to the nth degree

[guitar man]

155. Simple

It's just a message board on the Internet. It's not worth getting an ulcer or high blood pressure over. All kinds of people find there way to all kinds of places on the Internet. If I feel myself getting irritated, I shut it down and do something else. Play with my daughter, spend time with my wife .... you know, important things ;)

[mfcorey1]

159. I don't know but when you find out let me know. There are some pseudo intellects who lurk just to

send your blood pressure through the roof. Hang in there. Look for serious discussions as there are many here and so much information you won't find anywhere else in print and electronic media.

[ProfessorGAC]

160. Just Thicken Your Skin

I'm not disagreeing in any way. There are things here that make me cringe. Kneejerking and purity monitors abound.

But, all we have to do is filter those things we find anathema to our personal view and look for those interesting points of view posted without silliness or unwarranted anger.

Hang in there.
GAC

[Raine]

162. Mostly I brush it off unless it is really personal.

There was one poster who was so personally insulting I swore I would never come back to DU. Even after putting them on ignore I still didn't want to come back and I didn't for a few months. I had a tragic loss of a loved and needed some diversion so I started lurking on DU again. One day there was discussion in DU about lost loved ones and I posted about my loss. I had so many kind and caring responses. Now when I get a nasty response I just remember the good people here and don't let the bad ones get to me.

[mmonk]

164. I don't put anyone on ignore nor unrecommend posts.

I feel they either stand on their own or don't.

[chillspike]

166. I personally won't complain or call people idiots here

I don't think people at DU are as ignorant as you claim. I think the problems arise when we don't discuss things civilly. And I think coming on a forum and calling people ignorant is not very productive for discussion on a political forum.

When I encounter people here I strongly disagree with I listen to their case and, if I feel like doing so, present my own and move on. If you are reacting with anger when you encounter other people's ignorance in this world I'm afraid you are going to have a very unpleasant experience in life because the world is full of ignorance. Surely you've caught on to this by now so why be upset?

You should consider yourself lucky you've found a place where mostly everyone agrees there is no way they are voting republican.

Everyone is a winner here in that respect.

[earthlight101]

167. you're asking longtime DUers how to deal with vile/stupid posts??

good luck on that, bud!


btw, every political internet forum is the same...

[dipsydoodle]

169. I've never figured there to anything particularly constructive

about putting anyone on ignore.

[rasputin1952]

170. We have 170,893 current registrations...

that is 170,893 opinions on virtually every subject imaginable. Some of those opinions are pretty much along a common avenue, (like bush was the worst president in history, and the GOP is out to destroy the Republic); others vary in many cases, such as gun laws or how to create jobs. DU, like the Democratic party is filled with ideas and exceptionally interesting and thoughtful people, usually passionate about a few items, but knowledgeable about many. We even have honest experts in almost any field you can think of.

It pays to have a tough skin, be ready to defend what you post, and most importantly, keep an open mind. On several issues, I've realized I was, or could have been wrong, and have changed my position on several things since I've been here. Those that provide logical and honest opinions can do remarkable good, others argue for the sake of arguing, regardless of the subject. No matter where you go in this world, there will always be some who insist that every silver lining has to have a dark ominous cloud, the darker an more ominous the better.

Some suggestions you can take or leave at your pleasure...Don't spend all of you time here in GD/GD-P, try cooking and baking, the Lounge etc., you'll find that people do a lot more here than discuss politics and policy. There is always the "Ignore" function for those you find particularly noxious, (although I have never used it, I am told it brings relief to some). There is also "Ignore Thread", if a thread is truly bothersome to a member. Of course, it is not easy when involved in a tough discussion, but just walking away is always an option, taking even a few minutes to do something other than stare at a screen and get into situations that can prove exhausting/exasperating, can do wonders for the mental health.

Eventually, one learns that differing opinions exist, and it is the lifeblood thought and change. Remember, DU is dynamic, I think that in itself beats just about everything else out there to some degree.

One last thing...of course, if in your travels on DU you stumble across a troll, or someone tossing attacks around like wildflower seeds, you can always alert so Moderators can take a look at the situation. We may be dynamic, but we want discussion, not tossing others into a meat grinder. We're pretty tolerant on DU, but there are rules we expect people to abide by.

[sendero]

171. The problem is.

.... we all have our own idea of what is "stupid", and we are all pretty sure that we are right.

Our thinking is a product of our intelligence, our experiences and our perceptions. Even people who are nominally "intelligent" can see things a completely different way. I know plenty of pretty intelligent people who still think George Bush was a good president.

And one last thought. I'm pretty sure that the paid disinformation campaign that has been in overdrive for 20 years to convince everyone of idiotic and provably wrong concepts, such as "tax cuts for the rich create jobs", is quite active here, and plenty of Democrats buy into such nonsense. My favorite current nonsense is that we are in a "recovery". It's laughable.

So when I read people here trying to defend economic idiocy, I offer them no quarter.

[Le Taz Hot]

172. Never forget it's a discussion board

and only a discussion board. There are times when the discussions are immensely interesting and you can't wait to follow them and/or offer your input. There are times when there's nothing but stupid shit -- sometimes for days. I find that's a good time to go play in my garden or clean the kitchen.

I know what others say but "ignore" really is your friend. There are a few individuals that can be so vile, so judgmental, so unfeeling that I just can't read their comments. We all have our levels of tolerance and you'll have to find yours.

One last thing. Several people have mentioned to go to the Lounge. That works for some people but there are also pitfalls that sometimes magnify the cruelty and insensitivity that sometimes resides on DU as a whole. Instead, as someone upthread suggested, find some forums of interest and spend time there.

[otohara]

179. Vileness & Stupidity

wow, that's mean!! What makes you think you're so different, after typing that about us?

smoke a joint vs Prozac and stop being so judgmental

[chrisa]

190. Well, to be honest, DU can be vile and stupid sometimes.

But it's better than 99% of the internet - LULZ OVER NINE THOUSAN!!1!! LOLOLOL!

[sufrommich]

180. I handle it by remembering that it's a discussion forum on

the internet and has nothing to do with my real life.

[TheFarseer]

181. when I see something I fundamentally don't agree with

I just hit the back button and find another thread to read.

[pitohui]

182. debate when you feel like debating and don't when you don't

i don't put anyone on ignore, why should i give anyone that much power as to admit they can annoy me just by existing?

we are not saving the world here, we are socializing and/or debating mostly with decent people who sometimes have unusual viewpoints, isn't that what we came for?

the ignorant and the evil will be with us always, when i see obvious trolls, i alert on them, when i see that a certain obvious troll has been tolerated for many years, i figure it's the way of the world and there's some backstory i don't know about it and i just shrug it off

if you get pissed off by stupidity, you're going to have a hard time in this life because "teh stupid" is EVERYWHERE

when it isn't fun, i go somewhere else and do something else, when i feel like a scrap, then i scrap...seems pretty simple to me

i don't come to hear my own ideas repeated back at me, i can get that inside my own head

[WilliamPitt]

185. I walk away.

Sometimes I succeed at this. On occasion, I have failed spectacularly. But ultimately, that's the trick if you hold to it. Nobody has chained you to the keyboard (and if they have, you have bigger problems to contend with), so when you feel the bile rising, walk away. Odds are, the offending thread will have submerged into DU obscurity when you return.

That, and whiskey. ;)

[The Backlash Cometh]

186. Unless someone gets too personal, I see it as an interactive debate forum.

One day I will be in absolutely defensive mode, defending my opinions against someone who I completely disagree with, and the next day, we're nodding in agreement on something else. I don't pay attention to the names half the time.

DU,I have always said, is my scream pillow. It's where I come to get things off my chest, and I assume everybody else is doing the same thing. In the end, I leave more illuminated than I came in. It is a Thinking Person's Cafe.

But, what it has never been has been a social network. At least not for me. I'm guessing that's because no one is as weird a I am.

[felix_numinous]

188. Helps to listen to music too--

sometimes life needs a soundtrack.

[chrisa]

189. The internet is full of stupid people - DU is no exception.

[lumberjack_jeff]

191. Go toe to toe. And remember that it's not real life.

DU doesn't have a corner on "ignorance and evil". It's omnipresent in real life, but is far less prevalent here.

The reason you're so pissed is precisely because the other posters are not ignorant and evil. If that were so, it'd be easy to summarily dismiss their opinions.

[woofless]

193. Welcome to the Human race.

We all make our own reality. You will eventually realize that some posters are wonderful and others not so. Just like real life. I came to the realization that nobody gives a shit what I think, so why worry about it? There is a ton of good stuff here and hundreds of GOOD, GOOD people here. Enjoy the good and ignore the less worthy.

Woof

[bemildred]

200. Why handle it? If it doesn't suit you, move on.

The kiss of death here seems to be taking yourself too seriously and/or taking what other people say too seriously. It's all just talk.

[Bragi]

201. Try to avoid e-personality disorder

There seems to be a growing body of research that suggests e-personality disorder may be a real problem. In some ways, we can become as invested, or even more invested, in our online identities as with our real identify.

Here is a recent book on the topic:

<http://www.amazon.com/Virtually-You-Dangerous-Powers-Personality/dp/0393070646>

- B

[undeterred]

202. I focus on the positive.

My state has the best forum on DU: Wisconsin. We all post a lot there and in other forums, and I think it really energizes us. We have some of the best Democrats in the country! Its not the only forum I go to, but I go there every day and I post there often.

I have posted general questions in DU and gotten a lot of helpful answers. Most of the people here are really great.

Sometimes I just read the fantastic posts that the great writers on DU put so much work into. I learn a lot here.

If bad stuff happens and I get caught up in a spat with someone, sometimes I back off for a few days. I don't post. Sometimes listening is better than speaking.

If something is inappropriate I alert on it. The moderators do a very good job.

I use the back button more than I used to. If I feel angry I may write a whole long post, and then when I'm done, I don't post it. I highly recommend this. The board would be a better place if a lot of things were left unsaid.

:hi:

[Octafish]

203. Be nice and kill them with kindness.

If they persist in being isshules, move on.

[TK421]

204. "Remember what Mr.Halloran said...its just like pictures in a book,Danny, it isn't real"

[eowyn_of_rohan]

205. I can hardly stand it sometimes

When the trolls and obnoxious A-Holes get to me I take a break. Sometimes a very LONG break.

[haele]

207. In any group of people, you have an exponentially increasing amount of opinions -

as in, 2 people can have 3 opinions when observing an event or a philosophy, 3 people can have approximately 4.5 opinions, and on and on...At least in my observation.
These opinions can ranging from bat-shit crazy to enlightening. And one person's bat-shit is another person's enlightenment.
Remember - there is no such thing as evil. There is such a thing as cognitive dissonance. And ass-hat humor. Or being under the influence of stress or mind-altering substances.
Really, a sense of humor helps big time. As does just shrugging the shoulders and figurativly walking away when someone just seems to be wanting to pick a fight on the boards.
Remember, this is the Internet, it's not like they're charging at you on the sidewalk ready to whack you with a picket sign reading "The World is Coming to an End if We All Don't Agree with My Clever Plan!"
Now, as for internet stalkers and other people with mental problems that might actually come off the board and start harassing you in RL - e-mail Admin and get a restraining order.

Just my two cents.

Haele

[October]

208. Grain of salt

DU has definitely changed in the last few years, and at first it bothered me greatly. Now, I just realize that we have been infiltrated by people intent upon disruption. (Perhaps by those Koch Bros. types and other trolls?)

That being said, I also think it's "normal" for the Democratic Party to have various factions (unlike the lock-step Republicans). Although, I was hoping the Tea Bag types would divide the GOP -- and maybe they are.

At this point, I avoid the "bait" for those in-fighting threads and still feel I can learn a lot here at DU, and also feel I am able to view issues from many different perspectives - helping me form my own.

I have no one on ignore.
I avoid in-fighting and those "bait" threads.
I realize we've been infiltrated -- to some extent.

Honestly, I think you'll find stupidity and harsh words/attitudes on any Internet group. It's so easy when people can post/instigate with anonymity; the Internet has made for more instances of that. Like you, I don't feel thin-skinned -- but I'm appalled when attacked for no apparent reason. As I stated, DU has changed -- and it's the incivility I notice most.

Hang in there. And don't be afraid to call someone on their rudeness -- I do.

Best wishes -- and WELCOME!

[LiberalAndProud]

210. I've given up hoping that everyone is always going to agree with me.

Vileness and ignorance I haven't see so much of, but certainly I find that I rarely agree with any given DUer 100% of the time. If their arguments are well reasoned, I will often reexamine my own position. I'm not looking to convert anyone. DU keeps me honest. And if a thread is particularly offensive, I love the (seldom invoked) red x to ignore threads. Preserves my beautiful mind.

If a particular forum is full of posters who are consistently ignorant and vile, I'd suggest staying away from those forums.

[MichiganVote]

212. Geez, not one of the three people I have on ignore is in this thread.

Some people are trying to spike a fight, those I may or may not respond to. I never let them get the best of me. Its only a stupid message board with some very smart people and some very not so smart people.

Usually I just ignore the posts or posters I don't feel like dealing with. But I am grateful for the people who are respectful and knowledgeable. I learn a lot here so its worth putting up with some nutjobs.

[Manifestor_of_Light]

213. I go outside and tend to my plants.

Gardening is what gets my head on straight.

don't take it seriously.