The handful of bilious Mudcat posters who cause the most discomfort are of quite a different attitude. They do not want to convince anybody of anything, and may not even be truly interested in their topics. Any topic will do, e.g. English grammar. When someone bothers to prove them wrong or unfair, or guilty of the very vices they are criticizing, they will simply repeat their statement. The reasons for this bizarre behaviour are not always clear to see, but may include a feeling of power by simple intimidation ("schoolyard bullies"), revenge for childhood wounds, or self-diagnosed heroism or martyrdom without suffering a scratch to their skin. Paradoxically, they all think of themselves as truly nice gals or guys, and some even have acquaintances to witness for them. Go figure.

Sorry, Grishka, but that is what I find typical of what causes offense and arguments far more than any amount of playground name calling. Firstly, you use the phrase 'handful of bilious Mudcat posters'. I find that both cowardly and confusing. Who do you mean? If you are going to attack someone, at least have the courage to name them. Secondly, you then go into pseudo-psychoanalysis of both the situation and the people.   Chances are you have got it wrong in both cases. Finally you go on to insult whoever it is you are attempting to analyse by saying it is a paradox that they are 'nice gals or guys'. What makes you think they are not? Have you met any of them? Do you actually know then at all? I think you may need to take a good long introspective look before you go around casting any more accusations.

DtG