Doug

I agree that we should not be rude to irritants. Nor can we ignore them because then they just ramp up their activities until somebody bites. The best way is to confront them not "theoretically" where they come fully prepared, but by using real world experience. Theory is easy. At university I was surrounded by people who could learn huge books and spout the contents authoratitively (and argumentatively) but who didn't have the means to "apply" it effectively when we were all sent out into the world.

Just watch. Some here are delighted to debate theory, but strangely they never seem to answer questions posted in the technical sections. Nor do they ever ask a question themselves. In this way, they avoid the underlying purpose of the forum which is a "community" to assist each other for no other reason than mutual joy in the language. The Irritants want to be an "authority" rather than participating in the community. Meanwhile others labour to the point of despair answering questions, never claiming kudos for themselves as they provide real assistance. Those are the ones who make the place worthwhile, and those who provide support and friendship to them are also doing a service.

I have a challenge for the irritants. Please leave the theory for a moment. Instead, start answering questions posted here, thereby proving that you have a real desire to help, and at least a touch of humility.

Regards

JR