I sympathise Jim, because I reckon I'm the most annoying of all the Thread Drifters. I do think though that a bit of diversion can defuse a rather volatile atmosphere.
The analogy of playground fights and teachers reminded me of my days on playground duty. I couldn't have ignored the spats, sent the children elsewhere or banned them permanently from the school. I sometimes did try diversion tactics. (Initiate a new game or give one or two a wee 'job' to do for example)
But the folk on here are NOT children, and could surely moderate their remarks and state their views without becoming abusive, belligerent and insulting.
(By the way, please don't leave Mudcat, as I've enjoyed participating on threads with you and would miss you)