BarkellWH -> RE: I'm leaving the off topics section (Mar. 7 2013 14:04:51)
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I enjoy participating in the "Off Topic" section because it provides a forum for discussion of a multitude of subjects and opinions. While the other sections concerning flamenco are interesting, many times they are repetitive, as the same questions and observations seem to appear from time to time. And the discussions on technique that clearly interest up-and-coming guitarists (as they should) do not have as much interest for me, mediocre guitarist that I am and always will be. Like Richard, I ascribe to the idea that any subject--politics, economics, philosophy, social policy, international relations, etc.--is fair game for discussion. And that includes questioning the premise and supporting evidence behind the opinion or assertion. What should be off-limits are personal attacks and assumptions about a member's "social circles," profession, knowledge and experience with different aspects of the topic, and other assumptions about a member making his case. None of us knows what other members' "social circles," knowledge, and experience of the topic are. And even if we did, it would be wrong to essentiallize, and assume that he can be pigeon-holed as having certain attributes. People in the same profession, social circles, and other categories very often have a wide range of opinions. Regarding the current dust-up over the original comment of "RIP Chavez," I think the original poster had every right to post it without being questioned why he did it. It was his sincere comment. Nevertheless, having raised the issue of Hugo Chavez, who was a very controversial leader to say the least, the subject became fair game for others to offer an opinion on Chavez. And they had a right to do so without having their motives impugned. After all, Chavez's death does not shield him from a discussion about the legacy he established while alive. Cheers, Bill
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