I agree that backstabbing and anger isn't going to get anyone anywhere-- which is the focus of my comments. But for the rest of your reply no, not agreed at all. Here's why:
Freedom of speech means just that-- the freedom to express one's views. It's not limited to a certain class of people, not limited to a specific education or knowledge level, not differentiated between new/experienced or young/old. It mean's the right to observe and comment-- and that right is inherent not only in our laws, but in principle.
I disagree with the "pinhole camera" illustration. I'm no newb to virtual reality-- nor to life itself-- so at the very least what I have to offer is an "outsider's" viewpoint of general conduct of a number of people in what appears to be a bad situation. In simple terms what you're telling me to do is "butt out" (but tactfully and politely)... and while that may be how you're feeling... I think an "outsider's" viewpoint may be useful at this time.
Because what I'm seeing right now, as an outsider, is a community being split over the attitude and actions of one man... which as an "outsider" makes me question the strength of the community. The guy hasn't really even *done* anything yet that I can see except shoot off his mouth a few times (and I'm not condoning that at all. I've agreed he needs more diplomacy)... and people are abandoning OSgrid.
So whether I'm right or wrong, my observations valid or invalid, I think maybe they deserve at least being posted so people can get a viewpoint different from their own. Because what I'm seeing more than anything, what I saw at the Town Hall meeting, was quite a bit too much of people on both sides trying to force their own opinions on others-- and not being willing to listen to others opinions. Maybe Hiro is at the center of the riot and bringing that about, but as an impartial observer (which is maybe what is needed right now) I think the riot need some calmer heads.
As far as I know Hiro may be a rotten, ebil person with the power to destroy OSgrid on a whim, I dunno. Yes, maybe more research is needed on my part (if I have two weeks of free time to research all this)... but what I'm commenting on is what I see now, yes, as an "outsider" (mind you, with 8 years hard core VR experience)-- and what I'm seeing is a "community" that is already fracturing over... what?
If you'd like to help me understand better by spelling out the issues in a little more detail... I'd welcome that. Learning more is da spice of life. : )