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I don't honestly see a great deal of difference between the discourse quoted above and normal political bar conversation, which is all a chatroom is. It isn't, actually, so much the moderators on FR that maintain the level of discourse so much as it is the fact that it is a very well-established board with a population that tends to enforce its internal - sometimes unwritten internal - rules with a blowtorch and a sledgehammer.

I have been told that it is an intimidating board for new users, and rightfully so. One does occasionally get to enjoy the sight of a clueless chatroom warrior wandering in, throwing down a contentless vanity post after two days' membership, and wondering why the roof falls in. I liken it to a freshman attending a fraternity party with his own paddle and a large "Kick Me" sign stuck to his back - he's perfectly welcome and no harm is intended but he shouldn't be surprised if he takes a godawful shellacking. There are times and places where one should not tempt fate.

That aside, I've been very pleased with the general cordiality here on FR despite heated differences of opinion on nearly everything. It's about the last place remaining where you hear the equivalent of "hush, child, the adults are talking."

You moron. My butt itches.

I don't honestly see a great deal of difference between the discourse quoted above and normal political bar conversation

Perhaps another comparison would be more beneficial then?

That was perfect, nothing more needs to be said. ;)