CMD:  I never shrink from a debate.  In fact, I rather enjoy them.  However, I very much prefer civil discussion/debate over the exchange of personal insults.  I have no problem with being "frank" or anyone else being frank.  Like you, I prefer open, frank discussions.  However, open, frank discussions do not have to include personal attacks asserting the other person is stupid for not believing as you do.  I think you frequently consider your "opinion" as "fact."  It isn't.  Example: Some people are convinced there IS a god.  Some people are convinced there is NOT a god. I, as an agnostic, admit I simply don't know.  Belief in the existance of a god AND belief in the "non-existance" of a god are both OPINIONS. They may be very strongly held opinions, but they are still opinions.  Facts require very strong, essentially clearly demonstrable proof.  You often express very stronly held opinions or beliefs......that, however, does NOT make them facts.