In Reply to: puritanism posted by The General on August 25, 2009 at 22:53:30:

If your post is merely a sarcastic ad hominem attack on a fellow poster without any other content regarding the thread or topic being discussed it is quite likely to be deleted. It's nothing to do with puritanism just house rules that are clearly indicated on the disclaimer rules of engagement - 'argue the point'.

All you have to do is be witty (or serious) but debate the topic - the ball not the man or woman. Posts that are purely ad hominem sarcastic remarks will be deleted. If you address the wider topic a minor barb here and there in this wider context, fine. But posts that simply comprise ad hominem attacks sarcastic or otherwise will be deleted where the moderators spot them.

For some reason such posts are extremely rare over on the NB. It is nice to see robust debate here on the issues but there's no no real plus in having sarcastic posts aimed solely at pointing out the perceived failings of another contributor to the debate?

To quote the disclaimer that you agree to whenever you submit a post:
"Refrain from gratuitous insults aimed at other contributors - argue the point instead."

• The Disclaimer