The problem is a need to believe in 'something'. Folk music's history has accumulated a lot of guff around a very few facts so that discussion becomes an act of faith, for 'us' or against 'us'. Folkies and non-folkies.

As a proud relativist and Fortean I adhere to the principle that 'nothing is more than the proper thing to wear for a while'. Until folkies can talk to the rest of the world I agree, the subject is best left alone.