I do not think so. Most people are civil and helpful; some are not. Those that are not use the anonymity of the www to bully people. There is one forum in particular on which people are very opinionated but blinded by their ignorance. Proffer a dissenting opinion and you will be ridiculed and thrown off that forum.
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.