Cathy Taddei wrote:
I would much rather see basic questions being answered than horrendous
off-topic threads and relentless one-upmanship. I thought this list was
about people helping each other, not experts talking to themselves.
And Susan Chiam wrote:
I hope this list is for dump (sic) as well as the smart people.
Hear, hear! Help or not, as you see fit. Chastising someone for
asking is arrogant and rude.
Shane's "manuals are useful" post a day or so ago was a beautiful
thing, and a fine way to respond to basic questions. We were all newbies
at one time, feeling overwhelmed by the vast amount of "stuff" we were
expected to learn and know. RTFM is a valid answer, as long as you point
out the relevant FM to R.
In the late 1970s, I remember the hardcopy systems library, 40 feet
long and 6 feet high. Questions to the systems guys usually got "It's in
the manual, look it up." Delivered with the smug superiority that the
1970s systems programmer was a master of. Him knowing I didn't have a clue
where to start, enjoying his lofty status in comparison to the lowly worm
that was me. That kind of attitude today (as then) infuriates me.
A hot button for me? You bet it is. I hate being made to feel
stupid (I can do -that- all on my own, TYVM); I hate to see responses on
technical discussion lists doing it to other people.
Cheers,,,Steve
Steve Conway
Systems Programmer
[EMAIL PROTECTED]
703.921.6432
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