Quote:
Originally Posted by REDL|NE
*snip*
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Well, let's see.... first of all, in most cases, there are only two basic options, right? Someone posts an article, or an opinion piece, or makes a thread in sexuality about fingering their girlfriend who might now be pregnant (you may laugh, but you have no idea how often that comes up... seriously), and they normally say something like either, "i can't decide between x and y choices" or, "my opinion is x. Is yours also x, or is it y?".
Now, there may be more than two options, but you're still somewhat limited to the scope of answers you're going to get.
And if someone makes a thread that's totally open-ended with no clear options, there are still going to be predictable patterns in human behavior.
This thread right here is a good example of that. It's totally open-ended. It's not even option-driven... you're just voicing a personal opinion. But even with that, you've still created an "agree or disagree" situation.
Given that you identify yourself as an avid lurker, then go about dropping criticism on those who participate actively, It's a fun irony that you'd receive the exact opposite of the "typical response"... people telling you what you don't want to hear, and "tough love".
If there's one thing that will earn you the "posts of harsh truth" badge real quick, it's being cocky in the face of those who love this place and participate.
For the record, I observe plenty of "tough love" and "I know you don't want to hear this, but..." posts. There are people I could name off right now (adding my own name to the list) who will always give it to you straight, who will always give that "the best advice is not what you want to hear" answer. Some of them are damn near infamous for it... and it is the balance of those people and the rest of the caring members of the TFP that makes this place a rich tapestry of attitudes, opinions and ideas.
Note: Lurking does not mean you watch a lot and can make grand impartial observations- it just means you don't participate, and therefore think that if you did, you'd do it better than the people you're watching. That's your tough love from me for the day.
- analog.