[Ambrianna]

I have read through this entire thread, and a couple related ones, with growing dismay. I am a newcomer to FR, so perhaps one of you could fill me in. Is this kind of name-calling, sarcasm, and overall disrespect typical here for discussing emotional controversies, or does Schiavo bring out the worst in this forum?

[EllaMinnow]

I have read through this entire thread, and a couple related ones, with growing dismay. I am a newcomer to FR, so perhaps one of you could fill me in. Is this kind of name-calling, sarcasm, and overall disrespect typical here for discussing emotional controversies, or does Schiavo bring out the worst in this forum?

Yes and yes.

[jwalsh07]

Free Republic is not for the timid, those who hold grudges or those with thin skins. Todays opponents are tomorrows allies but yes, the debate on the Schiavo case was exceptionally emotional and at times nasty.

But the information and resources you can access is second to none.

Good luck. :-}

[Bones75]

"does Schiavo bring out the worst in this forum?"

Bingo.

Most threads are nowhere near like this.

[the OlLine Rebel]

It's pretty typical, I'm afraid. Issues like this tend to show as much vehemence at least, and venom at worst, as any Dem-Repub match could.

But then, every forum of every kind I've ever been on gets to this sometimes. You cannot escape it, and frankly, isn't it boring when there is only agreement? ;-D

BTW, welcome here, whatever you think!