Freedom of speech is considered one of our most cherished rights. Yet for all of its benefits, it's fraught with unfortunate side effects. I've been applauded by fellow modelers for my courage to speak frankly about touchy topics. I never thought twice about it; after all, what harm could possibly come from being honest about something as innocuous as model railroading?
You'd be surprised. For each vote of confidence I've received on an opinion expressed, I've also received a less-than-flattering response, to put it politely. Worse, occasionally there's been a snowball effect, ultimately resulting in action taken against me. Indeed, in one instance I was barred from a group for having written a single sentence expressing my disappointment with an off-topic remark made by a former member of the group.
Ultimately, free speech has for me resulted in more negative consequences than positive ones. Therefore, I've taken an axe to all of my blogs and removed all posts that aren't purely related to modeling. It's unfortunate, but too many people are using free speech as a weapon, and turning my words against me.
With a business to protect, I must take extreme precautions. So, regular readers will have to look elsewhere for opinion; from here on out, it's strictly modeling. Kind of dry and boring, if you ask me, but such is the price of free speech.
Well, I hate this post. :) But I also knew it was eventually going to happen once you entered the business end of the hobby. Yours were the only really intellectualized blogs I know of that were straight-shooting and informative at the same time. This shows the unfortunate lack of tolerance by hobbyists regarding rational opinions intended to better the hobby. I, too, have been on the receiving end of similar outbursts over rather innocuous matters, and I was forced to cease my volunteer activities because of narrow minded personal attacks. Perhaps there is an anonymous outlet for your cogent, relevant and important thoughts somewhere out there...
ReplyDeleteAh, David, we will always have the fools with us. I agree with Riley, there is very little straight talk in this industry, and opinion is always suspect. I wish you well in your business and I hope your opinions will crop up elsewhere. You are a breath of freash air in this community.
ReplyDeleteI always looked forward to your opinions David, as the others have said, it's nice to see somebody speak their mind. That said, there always seems to come backlash by those that can't or won't do the same. It's unfortunate you've had to edit your blogs yet again, because of a few, but we understand why.
ReplyDeleteplease reconsider your position free speech should be cherished , you are safe as long as the sane outnumber the fascists,
ReplyDeletethe fascists are simply louder and more brazen in their assauly on good people and free opinion
but the sane and moral outnumber them , always have and always will
thanks for your excellent internet publishing efforts , reading about the layout you built ate 3 hours of my life and i am the richer for it
David, you stop then they win. This is the sole reason for their attacks, hoping to shut you down.
ReplyDeleteI have taken "abuse" from others wanting power because of my business stance. But I will not cave, they would love nothing more than to see me fall. Does anyone here really believe that David's business would suffer if he were to continue his blogs? I do not, and I have a very small stake in his business.
The model railroading community will suffer the most from your silence, please reconsider.
David, I am sorry to read this and sorry about the message from Karen about your personal injury and hospitalization (not connected in any way, I hope?!?).
ReplyDeleteI love your work and enjoy reading your comments and opinions. I cannot understand why someone would take offence? Even if one doesn´t agree- who cares? And what is the point of only reading / listening to opinions that confirm ones own? I must say, I am not always sure I am with you all the way in what you state about e.g. some companies in the Z business, but hey, let´s get inspired instead aggrevated!
Please keep up your publishings, no censorship please!! Publishers and journalists start censoring themselves is fatal for any society.
BTW, love the Jay Kay shop! Second best choice of course (should have been the chinese restaurant :-) - just kidding, for those that take offence -
cheers,
Matt
David,
ReplyDeleteI will miss reading your thoughtful posts.
Wishing you a speedy recovery and a happy, prosperous New Year.
Cheers,
Michael Duggan
"Great spirits have always encountered violent opposition from mediocre minds."
ReplyDeleteSo said Albert Einstein.
Jaime
I've always enjoyed your commentary, shame that some folks react so badly to having their rice bowls upset but there it is. Happy Modeling!
ReplyDelete