"Don't talk back to me, alright?!" - Randy Johnson

This morning I have come across a number of news stories, etc. and I have violated my own rule about not reading the comments. Already this morning, I have seen comments psychoanalyzing the author of an article, questioning the author's bias in a completely apolitical piece, and arguing with Dear Abby! What is going on?!

Actually, I know the problem. People have very much bought into the foolishness of the current media obsession known as "join the conversation." Actually, don't. I don't want to read about your problems, politics, or opinions when I'm reading the sports or news or an advice column. If you want to write about it on your Facebook, or Tweet about it, or even blog about it (I know: who does that anymore?) then go right ahead. That's why those forums exist. Unfortunately, the comments section of most every website is a cesspool of stupidity, in which you can find the rhetorical equivalent of "You're a big dummyhead!" "I know you are but what am I?" played out for public consumption.

If you want to read opinions, turn to the editorial section of a newspaper or website. But do everyone a favor: don't "join the conversation."

Thanks for reading. I'll try to do better next time.