You used to be able to filter certain topics, like vanities, so that they would not show up at all. However, that would require someone to actually set it up, and that's much to technical for some folks. Their solution is to just isolate the "stupid" posts somewhere that they don't ever have to even see.
This will amount to dumbing down the whole forum as we try to appeal to the whiners among us. This WILL endanger funds, as I've already had some folks FReepmail me about their "buyer's remorse" from having donated money last week.
I remember that. When the option was available I chose to see all posts, but recently I think the volume of vanity posts has become much heavier.
Their solution is to just isolate the "stupid" posts somewhere that they don't ever have to even see.
I can understand your point. Perhaps there is greater utility in using different forums for those who want to gravitate along ideological lines. IOW, a "Christian conservative" forum, "libertarian" forum, and so on. That might reduce the flame wars.
Hopefully everyone will give it some time to settle out. I'm sure John Robinson will be receptive to user feedback and make changes accordingly.