[markdown]

> it is distressing that open conversation continues to shrink in our world

Are you sure about that? When has talk about Bigfoot, moon landing conspiracies, the government turning frogs gay, and other such nonsense been welcome in "open conversation"?

[zero_deg_kevin]

I suspect the point of contention here is that people expect their unsubstantiated nonsense to be taken seriously, treated with respect, and accepted by the general public.

[nbardy]

Since the dawn of time.

[markdown]

National Enquirer isn't "open conversation" lol.