Thank god for forums!

[doodle]

Has anyone managed to have succesful real life conversations about any of the topics we regularly discuss in this forum? Im starting to come to the conclusion that real life should be limited to light conversation and banter, and the more complicated and heavy topics like ethics, economics, and politics should be dealt with almost strictly in a forum environment. Not only is a forum less personal (less ego to defend and face to save), but it allows someone time to disengage from a discussion, ponder/ relax, and then come back into the fray when ready.

[LazyInvestor]

Amen! Helps that it's mostly similar minded individuals here too, although the recent trend of whining about PP upsets me a little bit.

[Pointedstick]

One of the biggest sources of happiness in my life is my marriage to a woman with whom I can have these kinds of serious discussions. Though she observes that often I need to hear something from you guys that she's been telling me for years before I really get it. Listen to your wife!

[Tyler]

The funny thing is that in many occasions internet arguments are much worse than those in real life. Anonymity, trivially easy association bias, and detachment from seeing the person you're talking to can bring out the worst in people.

This just happens to be a good forum with mostly thoughtful, intelligent people. And finding a good group with similar interests is definitely one of the plusses of the internet.