Don't you think, though, that it is deliberately designed for American mob (lynch) law and destructive of honest discussion? I don't feel superior - just against bullying. I got into it because some yobbo started putting groans on all my posts. Two can play at that game, I thought then, but what sort of pillocks to we get associated with thereby?
No, I don't. Read the thread on the groaning vote. The reasons one might groan someone are laid out clearly and concisely there.
Like anything, it can be and is abused, to the detriment of the abuser, who is then subject to self induced ridicule.
This is a debate forum.
Nothing here is "deliberately designed" to stifle honest discussion.
Some posters are simply worth nothing more than a groan,
Other times it is used to great humorous effect, and often groans are passed out to each other by the best of friends.
You moralists, so concerned for other's welfare amuse me to no end.
Keep your own side of the street clean, and don't worry about my side.