What some might consider ‘heated argument’ others would call an ugly flame-war.
Fair enough, but folks can always go to another thread if they get uncomfortable with the rising temp. It depends on the issue and the level of personal invective, of course. Common sense should rule the day.
Better to be thoughtful and persuasive, offering incisive (so sharp as to cause mental pain) argument rather than anything that belittles the opponent. I’m sure you relish that, more than some need to bash others over the head with insult, right?
I like them both. I post longer thought pieces on what I know a great deal about (foreign policy and foreign affairs), and I like to get in short bursts of spars with people who can give it back and not have a coronary about it. Sometimes it is necessary to say to someone "you are a moron." It is just called for in the context of the argument. At the same time, some of the people I have had the most heated debates with I have ended up in contact with through Freepmail and all is forgiven and forgotten. No one else need know about it. This is the adult playground. Sometimes you get bruised by the others, but the kid who always runs to the teacher is a nerd. Better to brush ourselves off and get back at the toys.
Cheers. That's my two cents.
The tolerance of which has been lowered, which is the point of this post. It will be wise for all to keep that in mind.