Just call me idealistic but it would be nice for our views to reach those who have the power to enact them.
I do understand you point. I really do.
But, IF some people think 18 year old+ people dressing like children (I don't agree), or if people do think the War on Drugs is a collosal waste of money (I do agree) ... should their opinions not be heard?
There were some kooks who thought we should break away from England. And some nutjobs who thought alcohol prohibition would never work. And some traitors who thought women should be allowed to vote.
On FR, someone will always post their counter-opinion (these folks aren't shy). If someone posts and unpopular opinion, the general opinion of Free Republic will become known ... and FAST.
If I were looking or credibility, I would consider this a good thing. Open debate. Popular, unpopular, and just plain weird.
I'm sure the "people who matter" will read the replies to the "porn" posts, and not conclude by one person that everyone on FR supports it.
And if they are that dim that one persoan will form an opinion of an entire site, should we really care about their opinion?
Good points - maybe I worry excessively.
It would really be great if powerful people did checkout FR. IMO how easier to get an idea of the countrywide opinion of issues?
Of course, that assumes they want to know. Anyway - it is a lot more realistic than a poll.