[Cronos]

That would be funny if it wasn’t so true. On our latest 5000+ thread, I got so fed up of the “you drink goat blood” argument and random photographs that I posted the reverse, idiotic argument. And the thread has degenerated into comedy central. We should have a forum where we can respectfully debate a central point with a group of Protestants — say the idea of the Baptists with their emphasis on adult baptism. I do believe we can have a serious, respectful debate with them on that, but for a gameload of doctoring, quizzical posters (Bashem, Hashem, Trachem) who destroy any meaningful debate with a nonsensical or out of context post or link or picture.

[annalex]

Threads degenerate because there is no mechanism to keep then healthy. The Caucus mechanism merely excludes controversy. There should be a way to foster controversy, yet do justice to the sincere debaters.

[markomalley]

On our latest 5000+ thread, I got so fed up of the “you drink goat blood” argument and random photographs that I posted the reverse, idiotic argument. And the thread has degenerated into comedy central. We should have a forum where we can respectfully debate a central point with a group of Protestants — say the idea of the Baptists with their emphasis on adult baptism. I do believe we can have a serious, respectful debate with them on that, but for a gameload of doctoring, quizzical posters (Bashem, Hashem, Trachem) who destroy any meaningful debate with a nonsensical or out of context post or link or picture.

Agreed. Even *SOME* of the detractors are capable of some serious thought...if they are forced to stay on topic, that would be helpful.

But I think the *pat* answer would be "that's what the Ecumenic label is for"