[jeffadotio]

Freedom of speech is not the freedom from consequences. One has the right to be rude and the inextricable burden of being judged.

Intentional rudeness is an expression of emotion. Fundamental truths and well-reasoned arguments, despite the article’s claim, do not require emotional expression. Open source contributors are neither punching bags nor therapists.

[coffexx]

Cold analysis and reason are rarely motivational or persuasive on their own. None of us like to admit it but our lives are emotionally driven pretty much all of the time, even when we're trying to be reasonable. To lead, persuade, and negotiate effectively with other human beings you need to be able to press emotional buttons.

While someone who is rude all the time, or unnecessarily, is probably not someone you want to work with. Well timed rudeness does have its place in a constructive conversation. Just like analogy does, or hyperbole, or reason - each have their place. To snap people back on track, to be understood, to escape being bogged down in irrelevant detail, convincing others of behavior or actions that are truly unacceptable to you, etc.