I like subjects that make me think and subjects I care about. How much I think about my post depends on the subject.
I hope that other’s will agree with me but more often they don’t. It does bother me a little when people do not agree with me but I know I can’t control their choices. I will debate with them a bit until I see the discussion is going nowhere.
When you say, “It seems in some groups it's really difficult to express your opinion”, don’t you mean “It seems in some groups it is really difficult for them to accept my opinion”?
Some posts are full of information, too, sharing tips back and forth on many subjects, not just opinions. Expert forums I guess they are called. I belong to a few and find them very worthwhile -- organic gardening, html/css, the Mac computer forum, a forum for the frugal on how to save money,--the forums on here are not all just idle chit chat, virtual cups of coffee and political opinions. One can learn a lot on many things and seek and give help to others, too on practical matters through their posts and PM's. People helping others can be one of the most precious benefits of a social networking site.
The forums and posts where people post their opinions on various issues I find interesting for it gives some insight into how a certain segment of the public thinks and allows one to get to know people probably better than meeting face to face over a cup of Starbuck's. Some things are thrown as trial balloons to draw out the thinking of members of the group, too. Some can be quite stimulating.
As to my posts and replies, I don't have that much of an investment in them. Always one to say what I think, and often see things differently than most, opposing opinions don't bother me. I expect them. For people don't always study the same material or sources, have different life experiences in the school of life, and as a result differing viewpoints. I always learn from others opinions on a matter, sometimes I modify my own with information or a viewpoint another posts. Some make one think a lot, and that's always good in my book.
There are those with totally closed minds, some that are content with only superficial tabloid-deep information, and some that don't want to think at all. They find their niche, use the site to socialize, looking for friends. new romantic interest, or people to pal around with, virtually or in person.
The trolls who like to lob hand grenades into groups, just for the delight of stirring up dissension are soon identified and when people quit feeding into their posts, ignore them, eventually they move on. One can find people with way too much time on their hands, living vicariously through their contacts online. Telling them to go get a life doesn't do much good for if they had the gumption they wouldn't be on the other end of the ether day in day out. Trolls can be ignored.
With the variety of forums on here one can use the site so many ways, and many do. So one can get out of it what they want and with the ability to set up their own forums, make it what they want.
I guess it depends. Some things do get to me on certain issues but having said that, I know in my heart I should just let it pass but that is sometimes hard to do, especially if I see someone using a stereotype carelessly. An example, she is homeless, so therefore she is lazy, which to me seems to translate that therefore all homeless people are lazy....that kind of thinking really bothers me and I tend to challenge it. And I will admit to not doing so nicely at times.
I have said before that I belong to one of the most controversial groups on Eons, at least I guess it is, because I don't belong to that many groups. It can get ugly in that group. I have left that group on three occasions but I came back because I will not be run off by nasty people. Many times the subjects are interesting but they often go down hill with the postings. My grandmother would tell me, Pam, be careful about who you hang around with, you tend to become just like them....there is some wisdom in those words.
I do think about everything I post in detail but I do try and not offend but anything can offend...even have a nice day can offend some people. And if you want to post of lighthearted things, who cares ...life does not have to be serious all the time. In this group, I try and stay away from politics because I have found that subject just gets too out of hand. Also, I think that some people put people down all the time but they just have no clue about it and they don't do it individually but they do so in mass by making blanket statements.
POSTING IS FUN, THE ANSWERS ARE ALWAYS MORE INTERESTING THAN MY QUESTIONS..
My opinions are strictly my opinions. While I don't necessarily expect to change anyone's mind, it represents another viewpoint and food for thought. Reading others' ideas does the same for me. I personally steer clear of groups that always go for the jugular. I'm not much for attacks and harsh words as a form of entertainment. Also, not everyone needs to think/believe as I do!
Why should anyone walk on eggshells in an attempt not to offend? In any forum all you have to do is ignore or walk away from a post if you can't deal with it. If you feel strongly about a topic, why not express your opinion, even if it's only to play devil's advocate? Or being tolerant if you don't agree. It's not only about giving your opinions, but learning about other people's perspectives, thoughts and reactions. There is nothing wrong with discussing politics and religion unless you become subjectively emotional and/or hot headed, then reasoning power is lost. Discussion is getting opposing points of view and ideas you probably never thought of, and right or wrong the cards are on the table.
I am reminded of the Zen Koan
Two monks were arguing about the temple flag waving in the wind/ One said, "The flag moves." The other said, "The wind moves." They argued back and forth but could not agree. The Zen Master said, "Gentlemen, it is not the flag that moves. It is not the wind that moves. It is your mind that moves."
I don't post a lot but I do read most postings. I try avoid the superficial boards in part because I do not want to insult anyone. I try to add either a summary or some new information that has not been in another posting. I guess some people are hear to listen to their own words. I really don't get that and am always looking for something new or something said in a nice clear way that helps my thinking on an issue. I am not really concerned about other opinions of my postings. I am not here to make friends but to listen to thoughts and ideas.
I read a lot of posts but I only post if I feel I can add something to a discussion. I generally try to avoid any confrontation.
Because I genuinely enjoy interacting with people in person and online, I put thought into posts I submit - even the light hearted and "fun" ones. I think to a degree that the posts one submits can perhaps give you a bit of insight into their personality.
It is never my intent to insult anyone, e.g., man bashing, which I've noticed quite a few men on this site accuse many women of doing. I just try to provide topics which I believe will generate discussion and perhaps cause us to pause and look at things with a new and/or different perspective.
