I was Bombthrower

Last week I posed as “Bombthrower” on several threads at bighollywood. I was inspired by John T. Simpson's post (http://bighollywood.breitbart.com/jtsimpson/2009/07/15/my-secret-life-as-a-conservative-republican/). Before I get too far into this I need to apologize to Burt Prelutsky (http://bighollywood.breitbart.com/bprelutsky/2009/07/16/indicting-the-usual-suspects/) and Gary Graham (http://bighollywood.breitbart.com/ggraham/2009/07/16/obama-wants-to-buck-us-up/) for hijacking their threads. But, I knew they could handle it based on the hateful comments they get on a regular basis.

I was one of a minority who thought Mr. Simpsons over the top comments were a good way to disarm the lunacy of those who would try to paint all conservatives with the same brush. I took the stereotypes that we all hear and used comments similar to them to see what would happen. (I like to take the stance of ‘if the shoe don’t fit, don’t try to wear it’ Why defend against something that isn’t true?)

Some people got upset. Some people laughed. My intention was to show how stupid it would be for someone to actually try and point the stereotype finger at us. The accuser (me) came across as an idiot. It got to the point that I couldn’t even pretend anymore and just started having fun.

I have learned a few things:
1. Bombthrowing is fun. Sorry but it really was.
2. Only a true believer could continue with certain lines of reasoning
3. For a site dedicated to Hollywood and pop-culture (industries that would die without free speech), we have a lot of people here who don’t seem to appreciate free speech. (I heard a saying once: “You can’t offend me, because I choose not to be offended.” Take that as you use fit.)
a. As such my personal computer is blocked from posting comments, even if I am logged in as my normal user name. This appears to be what hitting the “report” button does; I have no idea if it is permanent. (If anyone at BH or intense debate could un-block me I would be grateful. I have learned my lesson and won’t do it again.)
4. I learned that some people will never change their minds about anything. I feel for those who post here and thoughtfully express their counter opinion. You may not get me to come around, but you have my respect. It is difficult to do even without people jumping down your throat.
5. Some of the people who post here are very skilled thinkers and writers. I thought I did a fair job of it, I realize that I have to step up my ability to explain my positions.

I appreciate the hosts and editors letting me use the site as a laboratory. I acknowledge it was self indulgent. I wonder how many of our so called “trolls” are serious about not liking us, or are just have some fun at our expense. I’d bet many are just trying to see what will happen.