Why does this state of affairs continue on this forum?
Because many people value their own personal ideology over freedom of expression.
They quite enjoy seeing people who hold alternative views being insulted and sworn at....although they would never indulge in that sort of behaviour themselves.

There are people on this thread who try to equate the actions of folk like Ian, with those of us who want a reasoned discussion on any issue, without being subjected to intimidation.

It is really up to the membership to determine what SORT of forum we have, is it to be a serious platform for debate.....the members are intelligent enough for that, or is it to be a foul playground for trolls and bullies?