uncivil behavior - final thoughts

["R. W. Zehr" <rzehr@pacbell.net>]

I know the "Bob" in Rocky's story, and I'd bet that the jackass who
dumped on him cost him at least $3,000, which will wind up as profit to
a dealer. 

I certainly hope that the guy who trashed him, and perhaps tried it on
me, is not associated with any dealer I know, as I would feel obligated
to express my disapproval of such ethics in highly unpleasant ways.

I mention this simply because, along with the 30 or so notes I got
expressing support, I also got a few saying - no big deal. 

I disagree as to whether it is a big deal, as this sort of incivility
and bullshit, particularly when hidden by anonymity (in this case behind
an email address) is exactly the sort of behavior which is making
America's cities dangerous places to live, and breaking down our social
contract in the long run.

If this person's identity were widely known, do you think for a minute
that he would dare to act like an asshole? If juvenile gang members
weren't protected behind laws that hide their identity, do you think we
would have our present problems?

Enough of the soapbox, but let me say that while I am perhaps an
old-fashioned guy, I will not put with this sort of crap from anyone,
and will go way out of my way to hold the line on appropriate behavior.

Regards to all of the listers who choose to act responsibly,
Rick Zehr