If posters knew they would be known by name and later meet the people they exchange with online, they would be more polite. Internet fora allow anonymity and the illusion of no consequences. For people of questionable character and poor impulse control, online life is their license to behave badly without consequence. For them, the categorical imperative has no meaning, nor does the notion of action and consequence.
Have we lost civility and respect on Audio forums?
I think we have. I have seen many discussion on audio forums and how nasty they can become when you have people disagreeing. Seems like there are a lot more know it alls now. I been in 20 years and I can still learn. But I also know I know quite a bit. Like cables can enhance the sound and higher end well designed gear can truly be ear candy special. Is this just on audio forums or the internet period.