Re: [basemman06] Should we use polls in forums?
In reply to:
Before the flaming starts, this is all in good spirit.


interesting options...
most things are simply tools (not in the climber sense). they can be used for good or ill. skydiving rigs can be great, but not from 500 feet. it's up to individuals to use tools well.
people interpret polls/statistics to suit their purpose. ask leading questions, provide highly biased answers from which to choose, etc. all slant the results. a classic example is "what is the best rig on the market?" most of the responders simply reply with the rig they use. a better question is "what rig do you own?"
unfortunately, I see some use the polls in a way that can differentiate between us. these polls tend to divide us into cliques based on various preferences. I'd rather think of BASE jumpers as unique, freethinking individuals who do not need group approval. let each of us choose our own style (that does not interfere with others) and enjoy what others create...