[FAKrogoth]

May I introduce a quote into this discussion? I read it in a very influential book, and it has become my unofficial motto:

"Man is forced to accept masochism as his ideal, under the threat that sadism is the only alternative."

Everywhere I look at society, I see this. People think that they are EXPECTED to take certain actions, in order to gain the respect of someone else. Then, since they had to do it, they expect others to do it as well. Pretty soon, it becomes an artificial desire indistinguishable from natural law. Look at charity: Since when is it more important to save someone else than oneself? However, when such a choice arises, those who chose themselves are harassed and cursed by those who took to heart the teachings of society.

In EVERY situation, you must make your own decisions. Think how each thing applies to you, and choose from there. Yes, sometimes the public as a whole can have a good idea, but NEVER take it for granted. And I've been, on the whole, impressed with the way the members of this Board respect the opinions of others, so I don't need to say anything more on it.