i really don't think it's politics that is bothering a few folks here. they know they can ignore it if they choose. it's the immature name calling that needs to go bye-bye. that does not help the argument at all. you can't be right about about everything, all the time. (except Mr. Nik and ceri).
just play nice and respect the forum. i'd like to think we are all friends no matter who we vote for.

1. We all have our own viewpoints: the fact that we have our own viewpoints is the very existance of agreeing to disagree.

If we all agreed, yes, there would be no more disagreements.
Right v left, left v right. What difference does it make when both parties stick it to their constituents. If you shook those politicians in a bag they'd all pretty much come out the same.
Seen too many times already, myself.
Anytime someone wants a position of power, it usually not in your favor.
I honestly think that when the people are corrupt, the system is corrupt, regard how sacred or pathetic that piece of toilet paper is.
A nation needs rulers because the people cannot rule themselves.
So...
I'm really resigned to accepting my lot in life and watch the balderdash from the sidelines as society destroys itself. All I can do. Nobody listens to me because my opinions differ from theirs.

I have strong opinions on politics and religion,but I mostly keep them to myself. My poor long suffering wife has to endure my rants, (I think she just smiles and ignores me) . But I must say that the people on this forum are by far the most civil even when disagreeing with each other, than any other forum out there. So fellow forumites give yourselves a pat on the back, and if you don't like a subject just pass on by .

Exactly Shredd, I think there is enough censorship on this site as posted in the rules, Banning Discussions because they make one uncomfortable, or because one does not like to see people disagree, Or because one thinks this site should be their model,..........Well that's just plain UNAMERICAN, Aint' It??? But as someone else said and I agree, It is a bit immature to call each other names. Thier is room to start other threads.

Too many and too severe of rules smacks of things with hammers and sickles, swastikas...and ultra-self righteousness.

Personally, 'sometimes enjoy the "greatly off topic" discussions.

I'm guilty of starting a few heated political threads. But I love debate and have to admit some people with other points of view challenge my thinking and make me consider their points sometimes. I'm especially interested in the opinions of people outside the US sometimes because this is the only place I ever have a direct communication with them.

That being said I can take a hint an chill out on it for a while. We all agree on loving music and good guitars. That's why were here.