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[quote]QUOTE: Originally posted by kevinstheRRman I see this very often, this single phrase in this forum, and I am starting to wonder about it. What is off topic exactly is there a set topic? Can anyone define the word topic, and would the word path come into use? If so, define the word path. I find off topic rather odd, when there is no general consensus of how a conversation should begin, how it should go and end. People put "off topic"; it has become evident, when the topic has nothing to do with Trains. Does this precede the topic, for the simple fact that some people get angry when they open a topic and find it has nothing to do with trains. If the above is true, I find it odd that these people would then even take the time to respond to the topic, if it upsets them so dearly- So is this topic off topic, what is off topic, technically there has to be a topic to be off it, what is the topic? Trains you might say? Well the two topics that have little to nothing to do with trains are each 20 pages long- so are those classified as being off topic but acceptable? Therefore, what is an unacceptable off topic conversation? If the above statement is true, should this conversation then be used around the dinner table- is that the type of off topic we wi***o avoid? Remember, I am not pin pointing anyone; these are just general questions. Don’t take it personally, I'm just wondering, that’s all. [/quote] Excellant post! My take? Forums are funny places because people are funny creatures. Some folks like their facts kept simple, and think THEIR beliefs shouldn't have to stand up for themselves, they are weak, and they tend to claim conversation has gotten off topic or "misdirected" everytime they see something they are uncomfortable with. They would burn books if they had to, to avoid going *there* Lots of folks have gotten used to this type of personna, and anticipate their frail protests, and consequently, guard their forays into the more obscure aspects of a discussion by prefacing the comment about to follow as being (with intent) "off topic" as a prophylactic measure, to prevent the simple minded from the need to utter the sure to follow protest.... In other words it's a polite way to say "so what?" before the fact....
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