Andy wrote:I still don't understand what knowing peoples names/positions has to do with intelligent debate?
You present a flawed opinion - it gets corrected and we all learn something. Isn't that the point of these forums? Or am I missing something.
What level justifies having 'enough' knowledge? 1st Dan? 4th Dan? 10th Dan? Gran Master in Origami?
Personally I think NOT knowing peoples position would encourage more debate...rather than being scared of questioning.
I would suggest that it would be a lack of intelligence to knowingly deeply debate a subject (of a very complex nature as karate is) with an individual who was unwilling to let you know who they are - unwilling to let you know the level of their involvement in the core subject - unwilling to give you legitimate and fair opportunity to test their points - unwilling to simply be open and honest about it all
I DO NOT question that novices often have great insight and things to offer occasionally but 'occasionally' is the operative word in most situations.
these forums could be fantastic for Karate and no one believes that more than i - but they will fail if the stuff posted isn't open to honest clear transparent scrutiny
those who follow us will evaluate the basis upon which we started all of this. Shaun and Emma have done an inspiring thing - tragic if it fell cos people just thought - 'a load of unknowns debating nothing that could be evaluated!'
