Jack, it also sums up most forms of strong belief about anything whatsoever, including the standard opposition that arises TO any existing conspiracy theory. People want to believe whatever they are already inclined to believe, no matter what their opinions are about anything.

This is because their own sense of strong ego identity is all wrapped up in what they already believe. To give up any little bit of it feels like losing part of oneself, so they fight like tigers to oppose anything that doesn't match what they already want to believe.

And THAT is what fuels a million vain and idle keystrokes a day on Mudcat! ;-)

My basic rule is: I want to enjoy life. Period. I don't really give a damn anymore if individuals on this forum happen not to believe something I believe, because it doesn't matter anyway. Let them be happy believing whatever they wish to. Why should it bother me? As long as I can enjoy myself discussing some interesting subject with some other people who are willing to remain friendly and reasonable, then I will. If, however, they want to fight about it and get all snide and huffy and nasty...well...I might engage in it as long as it still amuses me to...but if it passes the point of being fun and starts getting to the point where it's causing me and them a whole bunch of pointless stress and hostility........I drop it.

I go and do something else that's more enjoyable. I ignore the thread where the fighting, back-biting, and personal insults are raging. I play my guitar. I read a good book. I enjoy the lovely weather outside.

I suggest to others to do the same, but that's up to them. Some people actually want to fight with other people all day on an obscure internet forum. That's what turns their crank. It strengthens their personal sense of identity. ;-) If that's what they want, fine with me. Go to it. Knock yourselves out.