Great thread, trout.
Here's a topic I wouldn't mind picking some brains about. I'm told on a regular basis that a skeptical mindset is "just being negative". Allegedly, all I do is tear ideas down and pop balloons. I try very hard not to be antagonistic or rude, but I feel like whenever someone's ideas are questioned, rather than take part in the debate it is much easier to simply castigate the source of their discomfort. It's particularly discomfiting when the conversations are with close friends and loved ones. How do you fellow skeptics deal with this?
At the same time, I'm told to "keep an open mind", despite the same respect not being paid toward my thoughts and opinions.
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