Well said, Kevin, and in the spirit of this thread. I think there are some good reasons reasons for being dismissive, sneering or downright hostility in some cases but you are quite right about it being counter-productive. The reasons I would, and have, resorted to such tactics are where people are so entrenched in their views that to even attempt a rational discussion is in itself counter-productive. There is a point where you realise that you are banging your head on a wall and you either cut and run or make your feelings well known. The former is the right option but, sadly, we are all only human and a good cussing can sometimes make us feel better even if it seems to be irrational.