When ideas fail to be shared and discussed for fear of offending others, freedom of speech does not exist.

I agree with Jythier.  But this is not an issue of freedom of speech.  Like it or not, the moderators get to set the rules. This is not a government run forum, or government controlled.

this is not an issue of freedom of speech

Ya hit the nail on the head Dr. Guy,  it isn't a government run forum,  and while I agree with J.,  I also understand adnauseam's point,  which i understand to be that some human decency would be nice,  what's the point of being crude?

Freedom of speech is a good thing until it becomes offensive to others.

It has already been pointed out that "freedom of speech" does not apply here. But your criteria begs a comment. You do have the right to unfettered political speech guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. You do not have the right to not be offended by others' speech. Were that the case, can you imagine what would happen to the political races that are cranking up right now?

I agree with you about the lack of civility that is common on JU lately...especially towards Christians and US citizens. But offended or not, I support their right to express themselves. After all, isn't that why we're all here? And if you are offended...don't look. There are a number of articles that I never read simply because of the by-line. No harm...no foul. If they invade your thread, you can delete them, can't you? If not, it is still not a show-stopper.

Still and all, it is a really good point.

It isn't a question of the First Amendment, for sure. But I couldn't let that comment go without repose, because it was so wrong, in my eyes.

Frankly, ad nauseum, I think you're looking in the wrong direction.

That's all I have to say about that.

Just because someone comes from your country doesn't mean they are honorable.

Gideon,

I'm confused by your reply. Could you elaborate? What does cheap, crude comment have to do with my country? There are dishonorable people from every country--are you suggesting I'm being biased because I'm South African and therefore feel superior? That is not the way it is. Crude comment raises its head in SA blogs just as it does everywhere.

Crude internet mugging concerns me because it is personally indecent, crass and repulsive. Furthermore it has alienated some of our JU friends who have left the JU family.

No, I'm saying that you are letting the fact that this individual is a countryman blind you as to what HE does to others.

I was completely indifferent to him until he and his little buddy let personal theological differences form the basis for a rather nasty attack against me. And the way he has treated other people on this site only add to that.

Aeryck also let loose some rather nasty attacks against LW that prompted her reply. Why weren't you on HIM when that happened? LW was simply defending herself against his attacks and doesn't deserve to ba called out for it.

OK, Gid, I see your point. There are times when Aeryck loses it and patriotism will not prevent me from telling him so. Hamartano (whoever he is), is a misguided loser hanging on for fun.

Personally I think they go overboard on the religion thing and the word "zealot" springs to mind.