Elena, I believe that in all of the posts, except the one JG has recently posted about Hitler, the discussions have been reasoned and non-volitile. You can have an intelligent discussion and bring up strong and differing points of view, and in these discussion threads there have been no name calling or insults (except for the thread I identified above).
Let's face it, we're not all going to stand around in a circle and sing "Kumbaya" (sp) and we're not going to Rodney King ("Can't we all just get along?") the world. As long as we have been respectful of each other's views, however we may disagree with each other, is all that's required. And I believe, for the most part, we have been.
And what is wrong with arguing? Should I compromise what I believe just because someone has an opposing point of view? A well-reasoned argument is necessary for attempting to persuade those that may not have an opinion on a subject why my views are superior, just as those who have a differing opinion attempt to persuade why their views are superior. No one is trying to "shove their beliefs" on anyone. No one here has that power. But the fact that I have an opinion and want to make it known just like DD has an opinion or LM has an opinion or JG has an opinion. It's up to the reader to determine whether or not our opinions match their own belief system and whether to agree, discard or respond to that opinion.
And, I believe, balsamic vinegar is very sweet.