I don’t think it is right to attack people who have a social personality. All harsh attacks should be reserved for those to 
exhibit anti-social traits. Whatever is necessary to expose them and render those people impotent is not only alright, it is vital for the survival of society. But to attack the personality of someone because they hold a different viewpoint or propose ideas that one does not agree with is an attack on the social fabric that binds groups together and therefore the group itself. The fact that someone is more intelligent than another (and would therefore have superior powers of observation) is seldom (never?) a reason to treat the other person with rudeness. We are all here together. It is good that we have differing views. That is what makes communication interesting.
The blogosphere is a community. It is a group.
Jonathan Dalton says:
Excellent thought, Russell … let’s hope the owner of this blog sees it as well since these seems to be the breeding ground for many of the attacks.
I’m sure this will be dismissed as always as “swill” but so be it.
February 16, 2008 — 9:46 pm
Mark Madsen says:
Russell, I speak with real estate professionals every day who want to share and speak through their own blog. One of the main reasons that I hear for their reluctance to take the step is that they are scared of what the bloodhoundblog will say. Just kidding, but you get the idea. People are inspired, yet intimidated by some of the powerful online voices in our industry. I was happy to read this post from you tonight and I’m sure it will help encourage anyone who is nervous about setting up their own blog.
February 16, 2008 — 9:46 pm
Derek Burress says:
Mr. Shaw:
I agree with your message, but I have issues with the links you provided. Please check your email.
February 16, 2008 — 9:56 pm
Teresa Boardman says:
I quite agree but find it facinating that you chose this venue to write about this idea.
February 17, 2008 — 5:12 am
Christina Ethridge says:
Russell – I agree with you. The problem becomes when someone thinks they have superior intelligence and believes no one else does. In other words, they rank themselves above all others, demeaning and condescending to anyone who does not agree with them, has other opinions and/or who says something wholly unrelated to them yet chooses to “attack” the other person (for want of a better word).
Mark also said it well – there have been multiple times that I’ve wholly disagreed with some posters out in the blogosphere and I’ll say so, unless it’s one or two that tend to attack others who disagree – then I tend to hold my tongue. Why? Because I refuse to get into a “pissing” match with someone who has blinders on. In other words, it’s not just an agreeable ‘debate’ (ie: you and Brian Wilson) but an opportunity to show that no one else can possibly be right because gee, I know it all when it comes to (insert subject here).
February 17, 2008 — 7:38 am
Ines says:
Russel – you have earned my respect. (not that you wanted it…..but you did)
February 17, 2008 — 8:07 am
Carole Cohen says:
You are one classy guy Mr. Shaw
February 17, 2008 — 8:42 am
Ann Cummings says:
Russell, you carry a great message and this is the best platform for that message. I read most of your posts, seldom comment, but this one brought me out of lurkdom.
February 17, 2008 — 2:32 pm