Neil
Thanks for bringing us back on track. There is little I could add to your ethics, but there are a few points I would mention as a result of this thread. I should point out to begin with that I am not a creature of the modern social world in so far as I don't use a mobile phone and I do not participate on Facebook, Twitter or whatever other social forum there is available out there. I only participate on the Woodwork Forums, although I am a member of another two or three. I am reminded once a year that I belong to these when I receive an email reminder that say I have become one year older (thanks a bundle). Actually I don't mind at all. Every day you wake up is a bonus a colleague of mine at work used to say.
So to all intent and purpose this Forum is my internet social world and an extension of my woodworking interests. I raise and participate on this section on subjects that catch my attention. It is and I have to emphasise this, "Nothing to do with Woodwork." It is not compulsory to visit this section and nor is it compulsory to continue visiting. Anybody can "unsubscribe" so they don't continue to receive email notifications.
With regard to this particular debate I believe it has been allowed to continue, despite the political connotations at times and despite the testiness we have seen (actually I think this is understandable owing to the serious nature of the subject, although it would have been better if it had not occured) because it is a world wide issue. It is on the same level as a world war, but without the hand to hand combat. Strictly speaking is does not comply with the Forum regulations so my thanks to the moderators for allowing this despite everything.
I would like to tell you that I have never been guilty of transgressing the rules of the Forum, but that would not be true. I congratulate those who have stepped back and moderated their language as that is easier said than done. I can absolutely forgive that. I find it more difficult to forgive deliberate baiting and otherwise mischievous behaviour. A little banter is quite acceptable. I like the occasional digression (if that becomes illegal I would have to delete half my posts) and I like some humour to lighten the mood when everything starts to get a bit fractious.
Something that I particularly take from discussions in this section of the Forum and this thread especially is the wide range of background that the participants have and the skills they bring to the debate. I am wiser than I was because of your contributions, your web links, your viewpoints and your opinions.
Keep informing us all.
Regards
Paul