Misopinionated,

"How many people on OLO can actually put forward an argument based on their own expertise of a subject?"

I recall that you once called yourself an environmental sociologist, which sounds about as wanky as you can get, but I look forward to you taking your own advice :)

Joe

LOUDmouth,

By your comment it seems like I hit a nerve. You really do have a touch of the sour grapes. You're not Robinson Crusoe; not everyone can be highly educated and knowledgeable. At least your heart is in the right place, that's the main thing.

What's this runner, have you seen the light, its a good post of yours, well said. With that one you've come up a level with me, you're no longer in the cellar you've moved up into the basement. Cheers!

Mr O,

I think there are a few varieties of posters on
this forum.

There are those who are serious about
wanting to add facts to any discussion.
They will
give links and reference sources to provide
evidence for their views.

Then there are posters who just want to give opinions.
Opinions are like butt-holes, everyone has one.
(Not that there's anything wrong with that as Seinfeld
would say).

With opinions - it can become a bit iffy. Forums often
attract extreme views. Views that tend to see the world in
black and white and an inability to consider opposing
views.

The black and white thinkers are somewhat simplistic.
With them it's either right or wrong. No shades of
grey.
They don't have any sophisticated way of knowing it.
They believe the fake news.

Hence references and links do have a part to play in
discussions.

Anyway, most people love to have their ideas validated
because it gives them a sense of self worth and
self identity.

The forum gives potency by the ability to provide a
sense of social connectedness of like-minded
individuals - but unfortunatley it can at times become
an "echo chamber" - a place where contrary views are
attacked.

That is something we all should try to avoid.

Yet thumbing through pages of "Linkedin" is the source of your high education and knowledge by your own admittance. I must remember that next time I formulate an opinion on immigration and education. Must remember that, no actual research required, just look at Linked in and count the Asian faces.

Mr O my comment was for.