I'd like to see a theology board where, to participate, one has to either actually put forward something on topic and debatable, or ask polite questions. No "feelings" allowed. No unsupported arguments allowed. A "put up or shut up" zone.
Chris
But aren't feelings a form of support for argument in some circles?
Debatable is a debatable term.
I still stand by thinking a theology subforum would be useful (even if considered boring by some).
And I *do* think there is value in discussion with people who are experts in the traditions, practices, and beliefs of their religion. While the comparison to a doctor may not be the most apt, I think the comparison to an historian or other humanities or social science expert would be. Remember- it isn't to say the "expert" in Catholicism, for example, is an expert in reality. It's to say that if I have a question or issue of debate on the doctrine or practices of Catholicism, it may help to speak with a Catholic well-educated in their own religion.
It's the basic concept of having key cultural consultants or expert informants. You want quality information about a particular area of knowledge, you might want to find an expert on it. That's the whole point of having a theology subforum, as opposed to the main forums where anyone can chime in whether they have a clue about the religion or not.
Me, personally- I have a deep interest in understanding what the experts know in each religion and how they see things. It's interesting to see where it differs from lay people and stereotypes. There's a richness in interpretation of history, tradition, and sacred text from which I can expand my knowledge of a tradition.
But then, I suppose I like watching paint dry... and I don't mind playing within some rules to get at new information.
