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The Lobby => Announcements => Topic started by: AllPurposeAtheist on July 14, 2014, 10:25:31 AM

Title: Site reality check..
Post by: AllPurposeAtheist on July 14, 2014, 10:25:31 AM
Folks, we've lost some good members here for no good reason and I've been considering leaving myself because of the disrespect often shown to each other here. I come here not because I want to argue and insult each other, but because I think of most of you as my friends.
As a group we have a great deal of the general public who hates us for merely being who we are and I come here to find people who I can respect and think of as my friends. Many of you have enriched my life, shown me respect and helped me in some dark periods of my life and it breaks my heart to come here to see us seemingly wanting little more than to tear each other down in very derogatory ways and comments.
One of our more prominent members left here because of the disrespect and outright blatant insults. We've been engaging in questioning character of people who have proven time and time again that they not only command our respect, but have shown genuine compassion for us and intellect.
It's time to reflect on whether we care about our members or not. I come here because you are my friends, not because you're good at breaking people down.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Solitary on July 14, 2014, 10:32:27 AM
I don't know who you are talking about, but I miss Sabrina the Witch that was here before on the original forum. And I know others that I don't see here now, which is sad. Like you, I considered them friends like you are to me. Well said by the way.  :butt: :biggrin2: Solitary
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: AllPurposeAtheist on July 14, 2014, 10:53:53 AM
Thanks Solitary.. Think about it a moment who I was referring to. I don't want to drop names nilly willy. I think we need to evaluate how we treat each other. It's not 8th grade playing dodgeball here.. We, as a group bring a lot to the table, but lately to many have just knocked everything off the table because of personal grudges or what not.. 
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: stromboli on July 14, 2014, 11:01:26 AM
People come and go for various reasons, but no one should be made to feel unwelcome without cause. To someone who is a long time poster and has made a commitment to the forum, to be demeaned in a personal way is wrong and immature. We all have friends on here and people we don't like so much. There are posters whose posts I won't address because of how I perceive their attitude, but to go out of our way to demean someone in a personal way is wrong.

The internet is a place of anonymity. Some people feel thay can do and say things they otherwise would be chastised for. We get trolls and sock puppets and people who lack integrity, which is sad. But among humans, the same rules of integrity should apply in every instance, even on the internet. That which demeans one among us demeans us all.

We can only hope that one so damaged can see that the majority of us here are above that, and choose either to stay or return, as the case applies. there are people gone that we miss, and we are the lesser for their absence. And likewise we should comport ourselves in a way that raises our level of integrity and makes us all better, rather than the opposite.

Drunkenshoe has been given cause to feel demeaned and unwelcome, and it is sad. She PM'd me a few weeks ago concerning a personal issue, and I in turn was impressed by her forthrightness and her sense of balance, and her intelligence. If she has been given cause to leave for unfair personal insults, it is wrong and shameful. Shameful to the forum, and everyone connected with it.

This forum is important. It matters, in both a personal sense and in the larger scheme of things. We are a voice of sanity in a world filled with craziness. Hopefully we can see the larger picture, and work by our treatment of others here to maintain and improve the quality of the forum overall.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Green Bottle on July 14, 2014, 11:25:04 AM
Afternoon Apa  Solitary an Stromboli, iv'e not been here long but its been good for me so far, a good bunch overall.
And in that short time iv'e formed opinions about most members iv'e seen posting through what they say and how they express themselves, and i have to say that most of u are good ppl.
I also wont drop any names but there are one or two that i wont give the time of day to, anyway, getting back to the topic, it seems that a certain member has left us and i for 1 am disappointed if its troo.
This poster in my opinion wasnt scared to say what they really thought, strong opinions and an ''attitude, which i happen to admire and also a sense of humour in some situations.
We all know the thread where all the trouble started and certain things were said some of them downrite rude, and also one comment in particular that our ' friend mite have taken offense to in particular, im not defending anybody here and we all know that things can be said in the heat of the moment and not always thought through, but i also thought that this comment was said in a jokey maybe flippant manner and not meant to be taken seriously.
But taken along with other things that had been said on the thread in question it was maybe the
final straw so to speak .
I was enjoying the debate on said thread until all of a sudden it seemed to degenerate into insults and name calling and wasnt nice to witness.
Its happend on a couple of threads since iv'e been here and its no good, there's no need for it.
Healthy debate is good and and lets have more of the same i say, but once it descends into pettyness the debate is over..............................
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Hijiri Byakuren on July 14, 2014, 11:41:51 AM
Quote from: stromboli on July 14, 2014, 11:01:26 AMDrunkenshoe has been given cause to feel demeaned and unwelcome
In my experience Shoe felt that way about pretty much any issue where someone had the nerve to disagree with her. She would even shout at me when I mostly agreed with her, and after the first couple times I started going out of my way to avoid most of the threads she started arguing in. It's disappointing that such a long-time member has left, but you'll have to forgive me if I'm not too disappointed.

As to the topic itself, this has been going on since at least the day I first arrived. I almost left the site within the first month for how people jumped down my throat during the old George Zimmerman threads, and it continued to be bad enough after that to the point where I just ignore most of the big argument threads. The last one I really participated in was that Conception thread, which is pretty much where I finally lost it. Not my proudest moment, that's for sure.

My biggest frustration is with the moderators, though. I feel that many of these runaway arguments -particularly the ones that end in bans- could be avoided if there were just a wee bit more enforcement of the "no flaming" policy.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: AllPurposeAtheist on July 14, 2014, 12:01:29 PM
Thanks Strom.. Breaking each other down serves no purpose of any benefit for this site or for the members. I could mention members wronged, but then I would equally be obliged to mention all the offenders who wronged them, but I have no interest in playing blame games and pointing fingers and would have to point at the mirror. Most of us are guilty to a large extent.
Flaming each other and throwing insults with no regard to others feelings..  Is that the site anyone wants to see? I sure don't.
We've all got opinions, that's fine. If you want your opinion to carry any weight insulting people with opposing opinions only degrades your views.  If you want respect you have to show it. Respect is earned, not just given by birthright.

OK, things to do today so till later.. Adios.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Bibliofagus on July 14, 2014, 12:53:12 PM
Yeah, but how often do you crap and shit?

Kidding aside (leo is awesome), a few thoughts:

I was a new member once. And I joined because at that moment AF.com was the most feisty environment around. There was light moderation, idiots lasted longer here than in other places so I got to read more clever responses to them. And more mods used to just participate more in these threads so everybody was on the same page in a way. I'm reading too little 'Still not done with the idiot, oh well carry on' posts from moderators. Instead I read a lot of 'Goodbye idiot - hammer'. I'm not sure but I even think there used to be a rule among mods that they couldn't ban a chew toy on their own if they had engaged him in debate.

Some new members come here to debate theist claims... And not only new members now that I think about it, Reimu, whom I think is one of the best posters here, only shows up when a theist gets some attention. New members might have seen Atheist Experience (in my case) or are in a situation where they never get to really respond to theist claims because in real life - for most people - this is a hard or stupid thing to do. I mean: how many times have we advised young kids to not come out as an atheist to their parents?

Most of us probably think this should be a safe place. I'm saying we are missing the chew toys to actually feel like a safe place for new members. If they click 'active discussions', what do you want them to see?

Also: APA - I've said it and meant it when you felt down, not sure how you feel now, but you are an inspiring person. I hope I will continue to read the stuff you post and kudo's for creating this thread.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: wolf39us on July 14, 2014, 01:33:12 PM
Stricter rule enforcement has been brought up to the moderators last week for this very issue.  I also believe too many of our own members have been throwing around insults far too much.  We want people to feel welcome here and that hasn't been happening as much as I'd like.

Saying shit like "you're a fucking idiot" doesn't advance your point / argument and I don't think it's necessary personally.  Suggestions are welcome by anyone who wants to contribute.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: the_antithesis on July 14, 2014, 01:59:37 PM
Quote from: AllPurposeAtheist on July 14, 2014, 10:25:31 AM
Folks, we've lost some good members here for no good reason

This is a new definition of the phrase "good members" that I was previously unaware.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Fidel_Castronaut on July 14, 2014, 02:01:39 PM
I'm not going to presume to tell the staff here anything as I've been a regular on here for a number of years now and I've enjoyed contributing. Not here so much anymore owing to being staff at the .org site and also other things going on

Makes me sad to think of you guys at each other's throats about things, but as far back as I remember we were always like that,albeit perhaps to a lesser degree.

Roadblocking flaming might be the way to go, and quorum on bans could be another. But again, I'm not going to presume on wolf et al here. After all, AF.com would have been long gone without them, and many of The other regulars here.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: stromboli on July 14, 2014, 02:13:16 PM
I wasn't involved in and didn't see the particular discussion/sitaution as it evolved. I am not pointing fingers at anyone, and I fully realize it gets heated on here. My only point is to not do or say things that are deliberately demeaning and to respect the intelligence of the posters.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Solitary on July 14, 2014, 02:34:47 PM
Quote from: Fidel_Castronaut on July 14, 2014, 02:01:39 PM
I'm not going to presume to tell the staff here anything as I've been a regular on here for a number of years now and I've enjoyed contributing. Not here so much anymore owing to being staff at the .org site and also other things going on

Makes me sad to think of you guys at each other's throats about things, but as far back as I remember we were always like that,albeit perhaps to a lesser degree.

Roadblocking flaming might be the way to go, and quorum on bans could be another. But again, I'm not going to presume on wolf et al here. After all, AF.com would have been long gone without them, and many of The other regulars here.
Hi Fidel! Go back to Cuba old friend! I thought maybe it was you that left recently. He! He! Solitary AKA Kiang
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: aitm on July 14, 2014, 02:36:53 PM
Going on my seventh year soon, not that is relevant. This is actually the first forum I ever joined. Before that I was frequented chat forums like Everywhere and About for about 6 years. I don't know how other forums operate but I know my first day here I was attacked quite quickly merely for suggesting a person does not need to be a flag waver for atheism, because "It was untrue to yourself you fucking moronic pussy".
   This was when Buck and HBA and FE and many others were in charge. Flaming then was far more what we call it now. This place has ebbs and flows, we get yelled at for banning xians too early, yelled at for not, yelled at for turning this place into a library where we can't even disagree loudly and of course yelled at for not stopping someone from calling someone else a fuckturd.

They come they go, they may come back, or not. We cannot be everything to everyone and still allow us the desire to be able to call bullshit. Everyone of us has done it so we can all take the responsibility ourselves as well. Every few months or so we have another person asking for us to be nicer...then some dipshit walks in and spends two weeks poking everybody, in a very civil and nice manner until it blows.

This place has lost a lot of good people and some not so good. Many times for no reason at all. Some for little reason. Again, I have little experience with other forums but I would suspect is it similar elsewhere. Those of us who have invested in this place, both monetarily and in great amounts of time, try to maintain what we think the majority wants. A good vibrant place where we can talk peaceably or argue vehemently without being constantly censured. Can we as mods do better? Sure. As Wolf mentioned we have been talking for a couple weeks now about tightening up the "abuse". Though I doubt some of you will consider "abuse" what many others may.

All we can do is to start again from right now. This forum will survive with or without many of us, ( I hope) we either fight to make it better or simply leave for a "greener grass". And always remember, there are no untouchables here. If you have objections to a member or "staff" you are always welcome to complain to the council. Those complaints are taken seriously. I hope to see you all tomorrow.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Solitary on July 14, 2014, 02:52:09 PM
It's very hard on the internet to know when someone is kidding or being sarcastic. I learned in the past to put SmOff when kidding around, and SmOn when I'm being serious. I know when people I know being here awhile when they are or not, but anyone that is new would not be aware they were just kidding. I think this, unfortunately, could have happened and could have been avoided. It doesn't help when four (Same Jerk!) new people come here that were previously banned that add fuel to the fire trying to get each of us at our throats and trying to shut down the forum because they belong to a club where they earn points by disrupting a site by trolling or spamming, and can win prizes, like an upgraded video driver. Believe me, it happens. Usually when anything bad happens in this world money is involved. I'm too old now, and this site is where I learn and meet new people I like, or not, but it is a big part of my life, and would hate to see it go away, even if it is with a bunch of stupid atheists.  :eek: :axe: :lol: Solitary   
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: SGOS on July 14, 2014, 03:02:37 PM
Some people just like to fight.  They may do it at home in real life with their partners.  They come to the internet and pick fights.  Maybe they see the internet as a good place to pick fights without getting a black eye or a bloody nose.  Wadayagonnado?
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Fidel_Castronaut on July 14, 2014, 03:07:18 PM
I read the conception thread, and I see that was a catalyst for some debate and flaming on here.

And I have to ask, come on guys and girls. It wasn't event a rape thread!

I also see that a given member left, which I find sad. I often disagreed with them, and we had our own flaming threads throughout the years, but we still ended up being decent friends even though we disagreed.

Incidentally I agree with aitm. Forums wax and wane, members come and go. Let's face it, an atheist forum is never going to be a place full of rainbows and gumdrops where everyone gets to play with fluffy kittens. People grow a thick skin, and eventually learn to accept and challenge things they dislike on the board, and as a result the board changes, naturally. 
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: the_antithesis on July 14, 2014, 03:15:05 PM
A few short weeks from now, we'll forget all about this.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Hydra009 on July 14, 2014, 03:20:09 PM
Quote from: Bibliofagus on July 14, 2014, 12:53:12 PM
Yeah, but how often do you crap and shit?

Kidding aside (leo is awesome), a few thoughts:

I was a new member once. And I joined because at that moment AF.com was the most feisty environment around. There was light moderation, idiots lasted longer here than in other places so I got to read more clever responses to them. And more mods used to just participate more in these threads so everybody was on the same page in a way. I'm reading too little 'Still not done with the idiot, oh well carry on' posts from moderators. Instead I read a lot of 'Goodbye idiot - hammer'.
As someone who lurks through the 30+ page troll threads or watch them seemingly antagonize the regulars for weeks and gunk up the top threads with a bunch of crap threads, this is a welcome change.  I like debates with theists and crackpots as much as the next guy, but we really don't need to indulge the complete idiots as much as we have.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Hydra009 on July 14, 2014, 03:24:49 PM
Quote from: Fidel_Castronaut on July 14, 2014, 03:07:18 PMI also see that a given member left, which I find sad. I often disagreed with them, and we had our own flaming threads throughout the years, but we still ended up being decent friends even though we disagreed.
Agreed.

QuoteIncidentally I agree with aitm. Forums wax and wane, members come and go. Let's face it, an atheist forum is never going to be a place full of rainbows and gumdrops where everyone gets to play with fluffy kittens. People grow a thick skin, and eventually learn to accept and challenge things they dislike on the board, and as a result the board changes, naturally.
Or endure and outlive what they dislike.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: the_antithesis on July 14, 2014, 04:08:46 PM
Allow me to tell you something.

I do not see me family anymore because the relationship was poisonous. It was poisonous for a lot of reasons, but the worst part of it was my mother. Her role was to try to make peace whenever a disagreement came up. She did not make peace. She simply shut down the conversation. That's not peace. Peace is when disagreements get resolved. Nothing is resolved if people are not allowed to talk.

I have been on rather heavily moderated forums and they remind me of my mother in this regard. Trying to keep the peace by not allowing peace to happen.

Social dynamic requires people to have their fights so they can work out the social hierarchy and come to understand one another better. It's what Bruce Tuckman called the "storming" stage. The very nature of an internet forum is that we will always, always, always be in the storming stage. There is a constant stream of new people coming in who need to work out how they fit in with the group, and the group needs to figure that out, too. One such site would give you a warning if they judge your post is too short. That website need to just delete their forums because they do not understand how they work and do not deserve to have one.

Moreover, this is an internet forum.  It is a disposable form o socializing. People come and go as they please. Nothing that happens here really lasts very long. We're all mostly here because we are bored and have nothing better to do with our time. All of us.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Shiranu on July 14, 2014, 04:18:00 PM
I apparently missed something :/.

I haven't particularly found this forum very toxic,  but that kinda scares me because it makes me wonder if I am one of the instigators :/. If I am, seriously... just tell me to stop being a douche.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Hijiri Byakuren on July 14, 2014, 05:25:25 PM

Quote from: Shiranu on July 14, 2014, 04:18:00 PM
I apparently missed something :/.

I haven't particularly found this forum very toxic,  but that kinda scares me because it makes me wonder if I am one of the instigators :/. If I am, seriously... just tell me to stop being a douche.
You and I have had some rather epic disagreements in the past, but a douche you are not.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk. Titty sprinkles.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: aitm on July 14, 2014, 06:21:54 PM
we have all had epic disagreements, Shir and I, well actually Shir mostly ;] called me lots of bad bad things on a Treyvon Martin thread, but we got over it, I still like the shit outa him but we can get pissy with each other if'n we want to. Naturally he is still wrong of course.......
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: StupidWiz on July 14, 2014, 06:24:54 PM
Quote from: Solitary on July 14, 2014, 10:32:27 AM
I don't know who you are talking about, but I miss Sabrina the Witch that was here before on the original forum. And I know others that I don't see here now, which is sad. Like you, I considered them friends like you are to me. Well said by the way.  :butt: :biggrin2: Solitary
Yea, I miss her as well. :(
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Hakurei Reimu on July 14, 2014, 06:43:28 PM
I haven't found this forum toxic, either. However, I came from SDN forums where the "storming" anti was talking about above is not only tolerated, but encouraged to some degree, and a lot of my habits followed. I suppose that I expect people to have figured out that the internet is a wild west and to have your asbestos underwear on at all times. Also, as my sig says, I can sometimes be ill-tempered and I bite.

I would ask people to have the rolled up newspaper ready in case I'm biting someone I shouldn't be biting. :wink:
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Hydra009 on July 14, 2014, 07:00:55 PM
Quote from: Shiranu on July 14, 2014, 04:18:00 PMI haven't particularly found this forum very toxic,  but that kinda scares me because it makes me wonder if I am one of the instigators :/. If I am, seriously... just tell me to stop being a douche.
You're not, as far as I know.  You make your case and you're firm about it without being close-minded.  I like that.  I respect that.  Even when I disagree.

Now, deliberate dishonesty...that stuff really is toxic.  Very few of us really exhibited that, fortunately.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Moralnihilist on July 14, 2014, 08:10:44 PM
What I think is there have been several disruptive additions recently to the forum. Firstly, and most obvious, is the troll infestation. The other thing is that people are taking themselves too seriously.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: aitm on July 14, 2014, 08:31:25 PM
Like many of you, I want the occasional whack job to stumble in...I mean..who the fuck wants to hear about skeletal' rim jobs again....... but gang when one walks in the place and you give em 23 pages...don't tell me you want the trolls to go away... you give em lobster and filet.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Hijiri Byakuren on July 14, 2014, 09:10:39 PM
Quote from: aitm on July 14, 2014, 08:31:25 PM
Like many of you, I want the occasional whack job to stumble in...I mean..who the fuck wants to hear about skeletal' rim jobs again....... but gang when one walks in the place and you give em 23 pages...don't tell me you want the trolls to go away... you give em lobster and filet.
I have to agree with this. If y'all didn't enjoy having trolls around, more of you would follow my example and just hit the ignore button. You don't, and in fact go out of your way to respond, so clearly any talk of getting rid of the "troll infestation" is greatly exaggerated.

The ignore button is there so we can deal with trolls on our own, folks. Use it.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: PickelledEggs on July 14, 2014, 09:43:07 PM
I think what APA had in mind with this thread was less about how we treat trolls and more about how we treat the current members on here. Trolls get what they deserve, but when you carry that over to a member of this forum's family, that is where we have problems.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Hydra009 on July 14, 2014, 09:58:18 PM
Quote from: PickelledEggs on July 14, 2014, 09:43:07 PM
I think what APA had in mind with this thread was less about how we treat trolls and more about how we treat the current members on here. Trolls get what they deserve, but when you carry that over to a member of this forum's family, that is where we have problems.
Did they?  All I know is someone left in a huff.  Didn't see anything in the banned thread but Frosty and co and phattmatt's sock or whatever.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Shol'va on July 14, 2014, 10:20:59 PM
The only thing wrong with this site is all you on here.
Screw the lot 'o ye. Ya hear?
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Nam on July 14, 2014, 10:44:38 PM
I'd apologize for my assholishness but it'd be a lie. I'm naturally argumentative. Just be glad you don't know me in person.

-Nam
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Hijiri Byakuren on July 14, 2014, 11:21:35 PM
Quote from: Nam on July 14, 2014, 10:44:38 PM
I'd apologize for my assholishness but it'd be a lie. I'm naturally argumentative. Just be glad you don't know me in person.

-Nam
Indeed. We'd be unable to restrain ourselves from using... extreme measures against you. :axe:
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Nam on July 15, 2014, 12:06:41 AM
Quote from: Hijiri Byakuren on July 14, 2014, 11:21:35 PM
Indeed. We'd be unable to restrain ourselves from using... extreme measures against you. :axe:

I've been shot at, and stabbed (not kidding). Bring it on!

:wink:

I've gotten many-a-death threat, ironically, none for being an atheist. One guy, back in 2006, stated he bought a ticket was coming to Orlando to kill me. I replied, "1. I don't actually live in Orlando but one of the many neighboring cities/towns -- it's just easier to say "Orlando" 2. I am not the only one named "David Arnold" in the Orlando Metropolitan area; there's about 11 of us, 7 in Orlando alone [at the time]" and 3. You're a fucking idiot for making a death threat here [website it happened at] because at least two of the current moderators online atm are cops in real life."

(from memory, not word for word)

He was arrested the next day. He even was bringing a gun with him. What a moron. And it all stemmed from him taking something I said out of context; others even attempted to explain to him how he took what I said out of context but he wasn't listening, he was right, we were wrong. And he went to jail for it.

Sadly, I must be slipping, though--haven't had a death threat in 3-4 years.

-Nam
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: PopeADope II on July 15, 2014, 05:29:16 AM
Quote from: Shiranu on July 14, 2014, 04:18:00 PM
I apparently missed something :/.

I haven't particularly found this forum very toxic,  but that kinda scares me because it makes me wonder if I am one of the instigators :/. If I am, seriously... just tell me to stop being a douche.
I didnt think you were serious...you were..
I think I have taken too lightly the damage that can be done posting online.  It seems harmless but we dont know what it might trigger in others who have ptsd and what not...
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: GrinningYMIR on July 15, 2014, 07:39:22 AM
This place is important to a lot of folks, whether it's because it serves as a escape from religion, or a desire for camaraderie, it's still important. Lately we've had a huge influx of trolls, Christians, and even folks who seem like decent people, but only post once, then bail.

The trolls do make things worse, and the decent people do as well, because it's been so long side a poster has stayed for a long time we've become used to every one being a troll or a religion thrower, doesn't hurt that a lot of them end up posting hotly debated political topics, always leads to argument.

In the end, I'm sad that she is gone, but I'm also worried about the fact that it looks like the average long term poster here is becoming more and more jaded towards the new ones, because of all the trash that has shown up recently. We've already got the whole clique mentality forming, I just don't want a good person to come along and be met with open hostility instead of being welcomed as a fellow atheist
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: PopeADope II on July 15, 2014, 07:50:08 AM
I actually believe the controversy will attract far more people.  People are looking for drama, mystery, and excitement.  I have seen all three of those virtues displayed here recently. 

I like the remodeling lately and am growing quite fond of the staff.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: SGOS on July 15, 2014, 08:08:18 AM
Quote from: PopeADope II on July 15, 2014, 07:50:08 AM
I actually believe the controversy will attract far more people.  People are looking for drama, mystery, and excitement. 
Sounds like potential chaos, ideal for chaos junkies who can't live without constant conflict.  Indeed, we've seen an influx of new people, and a slew of trolls who may have been attracted by other trolls all looking to create chaos, destroy potentially interesting threads, and flood the recent topics menu with useless drivel.

No thanks.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: SGOS on July 15, 2014, 09:00:25 AM
I wonder of atheist sites get trolled more than others?
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: wolf39us on July 15, 2014, 09:00:56 AM
maybe? who knows... just got some heated people that keep coming back to troll
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: AllPurposeAtheist on July 15, 2014, 09:13:01 AM
To be honest I'm not big on treating anyone like garbage. I get in my pissy moods too and occasionally go off the edge myself, but to stand by and watch it begin to disintegrate into chaos and squabbling over pettiness is not a recipe for longevity.
I still think of most here as friends, some just acquaintance, but I don't hate anyone here, not even the trolls and rolly holders. I certainly don't get my kicks out of trying to degrade anyone.
If it degrades to just one big insult fest I'll leave, no problems. Joking around is one thing, blatantly insulting others is quite another. It's pretty simple really. If you're joking around and someone takes it wrong it's not going to kill you to say your sorry and nobody will think the lesser of you for apologizing. If you think you're above apologizing for being an asshole then I don't know what to say other than leave me alone. We have nothing to talk about.
I'd like to think the majority of the people here are able to recognize when they've hurt others and able to take steps to rectify the problems.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: stromboli on July 15, 2014, 09:16:22 AM
I don't have moods. I go from quiescent to a fit of rage in about one eyeblink. I had to replace a door once because I put my fist through it. Fortunately it doesn't happen often.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: AllPurposeAtheist on July 15, 2014, 09:21:48 AM
Quote from: stromboli on July 15, 2014, 09:16:22 AM
I don't have moods. I go from quiescent to a fit of rage in about one eyeblink. I had to replace a door once because I put my fist through it. Fortunately it doesn't happen often.
No moods, huh? Well aren't we special. :lol:
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Nam on July 15, 2014, 12:04:34 PM
Quote from: SGOS on July 15, 2014, 09:00:25 AM
I wonder of atheist sites get trolled more than others?

Actually, I think Christian and racist sites get trolled the most. Christian sites by everyone, including other Christians not like those Christians, and racist sites by non-racists, and media looking for a "story". http://stormfront.org (NSFW unless your boss is a racist) is trolled by media regularly.

-Nam
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: SvZurich on November 09, 2014, 10:20:17 PM
Ugh, going back to the original IG board, Xians and Muslims trolled us hard for kicks.  Then later we had the POE folks.  I honestly don't think religious sites get trolled as much primarily because of how heavy they censor and moderate opposing views.

I died laughing at a video my girlfriend showed me the other day.  Georgia Fundie goes to Sweden and freaks out over how many people don't believe in God, and how even their Xians refuse to condemn sexual minorities.  His most commonly uttered word was a shocked "Wow."  :)
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: stromboli on November 09, 2014, 10:55:33 PM
Lol. Welcome back, Kimmie. Missed you.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: AllPurposeAtheist on November 10, 2014, 08:46:29 AM
Oh Im Gee! Kimmy's back! Praise be Kimmy! :biggrin:
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Jason78 on November 10, 2014, 05:33:00 PM
Quote from: Nam on July 15, 2014, 12:04:34 PM
Actually, I think Christian and racist sites get trolled the most.

What's the difference?  :)
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Deidre32 on November 16, 2014, 06:58:21 PM
I haven't been posting on here as much as I do on TTA, and AF.org. I've always just ignored people who are internet bullies, and by ignore I don't mean ''putting them on ignore.'' lol I just choose to ignore people who like to incite drama, or wish to bully others. There will always be that element that exists on an internet message forum, as well as sock puppeting, trolling, etc. This site seems less prone to bullying from all I've seen, but now that I'm posting here a bit more, maybe I'll see things I didn't notice in the past.

I wasn't aware positive contributors/posters had left over being insulted, etc. That's a shame; I always dislike it when that happens.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: AllPurposeAtheist on November 16, 2014, 11:43:27 PM
It definitely happens here..
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Sal1981 on November 19, 2014, 10:26:26 AM
I used to post more here, but I simply lost interest or something. I don't have any particular reason of posting so infrequently other than a lack of interest.

Maybe I'll contribute more to discussions from now on.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: stromboli on November 19, 2014, 10:48:12 AM
Truth is I walk lightly on this forum. I have probably written about a hundred posts that never got submitted because they were pretty harsh. I am a lot more PC here than in real life.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: caseagainstfaith on November 19, 2014, 02:36:07 PM
Hi, I'm back.  If anybody remembers me.  A number of months ago, I tried to log it, and my password didn't work.  I was mostly busy with other shit, so, I never bothered to reset my password.  Until today.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: wolf39us on November 19, 2014, 03:41:07 PM
Kimmie, been a long time -- we all missed ya!

Welcome back case
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: PickelledEggs on November 19, 2014, 03:41:41 PM
Wait. who is kimmy?
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: AllPurposeAtheist on November 19, 2014, 06:57:22 PM
Quote from: PickelledEggs on November 19, 2014, 03:41:41 PM
Wait. who is kimmy?

If you have to ask you can't afford her..
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: stromboli on November 19, 2014, 07:29:16 PM
Kimmy is special. If you haven't met her, you missed out.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: caseagainstfaith on December 07, 2014, 09:52:54 AM
SvZurich aka Kimmy.  Notice the post count on her.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Gerard on December 07, 2014, 11:09:49 AM
Quote from: PickelledEggs on November 19, 2014, 03:41:41 PM
Wait. who is kimmy?

You were saying what!? Shame......
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: PickelledEggs on December 07, 2014, 11:20:48 AM
Forgive me for I do not know what I said...

but...

Explain!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NlpRBLkgcBo
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: Aroura33 on December 07, 2014, 05:46:24 PM
Well I don't think I was around for whatever happened when this thread started.  When I left last, Drunkenshoe was still a very regular poster, and when I came back she wasn't around.  But I drift in and out of this forums, here for a few months, gone for a few months, no reasons except real life gets busy or some other social avenue takes over for a while.

I have always thought people should be more polite here, but hey, I can' force other people to behave a certain way, I'm not a mod, and don't envy their jobs here! 

I will say it's nice to see Caseagainstfaith and Kimmie back though!   Glad to see both of you. :D
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: aitm on December 07, 2014, 06:55:41 PM
people come…people go…there a song about that somewhere..
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: _Xenu_ on December 07, 2014, 07:16:13 PM
I miss both Kimmie and Sabrina...

The sad truth is though, this place isn't as busy as it used to be. Lots of people have left.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: GrinningYMIR on December 07, 2014, 09:02:38 PM
Quote from: _Xenu_ on December 07, 2014, 07:16:13 PM
I miss both Kimmie and Sabrina...

The sad truth is though, this place isn't as busy as it used to be. Lots of people have left.

I looked at my first post just now, my introduction one, and of the 14 or so replies I think only three people are still here as of now. I use this place as a haven and to talk to people like all of you guys without worry of being threatened, attacked, or excluded, I can't even comment on facebook for worry people will react badly.

It makes me sad to see it in a downed state, its helped me a lot, and I don't want to see it hurting
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: caseagainstfaith on December 09, 2014, 06:33:35 PM
Quote from: _Xenu_ on December 07, 2014, 07:16:13 PM
The sad truth is though, this place isn't as busy as it used to be. Lots of people have left.

I left for a while.  I'm back, but honestly, I still don't participate much.  I'm looking at the threads, and there just aren't a lot that have me interested. And, it can be a downward spiral.  If there are lots of people, there are lots of threads.  Some of them will bound to interest you.  When there are fewer people, fewer threads. So the people that try to stick around get bored and leave too.
Title: Re: Site reality check..
Post by: GrinningYMIR on December 09, 2014, 07:05:09 PM
That makes sense, still I wish to see the site prosper, not fall down to a few people