On Wed, 4 Sep 2002 13:33:38 -1000, [EMAIL PROTECTED] said: > I fully agree with all of these points, except for #2. Micro$oft > bashing is a time-honoured and loved aspect of any Linux Users Group. > It's what gives us our character! :) > > cheers, > charles (writing from a Winblows machine)
In my opinion, Microsoft bashing is alright to a certain extent. For example, I'm sure you remember back in your childhood days when your friends made up harsh nicknames for other people, or even against yourself, all in the name of fun. It's comical at first, but after a while it gets quite irritating and annoying. Someone who constantly utters these nicknames now have a close-minded view of that person. As Warren stated, it does scare some people even if you meant no harm. Bashing also gives people a negative connotation of you and those affiliated with you, such as MPLUG. If this is the "character" that you want for this group, then please continue the bashing. Just because all other Linux User Groups do it, does that make it right? With the Linux for Schools project successfully underway, more and more educators and non-techies are joining this mailing list. The self-censorship that MonMotha mentioned would be ideal, and possibly crucial, to keep these people interested in the Open Source community. Wouldn't they rather trust a group of individuals who can express their ideas and opinions eloquently? Speaking of the car analogy, there seems to be this big feud between Ford and Chevrolet owners on the mainland. Both sides conjure up nasty nicknames, bumper stickers, and other miscellaneous propaganda against the other. It makes you wonder if people ever grow up. Just my two cents plus tax :] -elayne