I know some people think locking threads somehow lends a degree of "respectability" to a BBS, and/or is "the right thing to do".

From my experience being a long time member of another BBS which has flame wars that make this place look like kindergarden, it serves to frustrate people even more, and closes off the chance for a subject/discussion to work it's way into something good by the end.

I have found that often, theads that don't seem to be going well turn around and offer excellent viewpoints if left alone.

The moderators here should really review their "policy" concerning locking threads. If the aim of this site is to increase membership, I can assure you that closing off conversation, no matter how ugly it may get at times, will NOT accomplish this goal.

Life is about conflict leading to resolution. When you chop off the ability to interact, conflicts don't get resolved. This site is for the members who frequent it. Some threads become VERY popular because of the conflict. I have found that most people don't mind that it gets ugly for a while. If only for entertainment purposes, at least the person is engaged and visiting the site eh?

Peace.