> That is, the implicit assumption that all conversation on the web (and increasingly real life) is a formal debate, where every participant is an expert on eve

> That is, the implicit assumption that all conversation on the web (and increasingly real life) is a formal debate, where every participant is an expert on every subject. It's odious and a hinderance to real discussion. Perhaps this is caused by a general lack of humility and compassion for ones fellow man. A desire to be right over the desire to learn something new or share ones' knowledge for the benefit of others.