Debate/ Opinion forums

[Sam1]

I have been paying attention to a forum which was started by a WebGurubb member who used to be active here- adifferentopinion.net. For the months I was following it, I noticed HUGE growth, followed by massive decline as members started fighting with each other.

How would you go about running an opinion or debate forum in order to make it a long lasting success?

 

[AlkHolic!©]

I think to do that is really difficult, it is obvious in the beginning people will love the fact that they can go onto a forum and speak their minds, however once they realise that people are going to disagree with almost everything you post. To try and keep the plates spinning i think the admin needs to post a lot and remind people that these are just differing opinions and not personal slurs.

 

[JLogan]

The idea sounds good on paper, but when put into action its pretty impossible to execute. As said above, members will begin to fight because of their disagreements which in turn makes it an unhealthy environment. So, the only way I could see it working is if you had the community filled with a bunch of cool people or the Admin didn't care if people argue'd - both of which are unlikely to happen.