At the Debian User Forums, "RTFM" -- "Read The [Fine] Manual" -- is often the best advice that's given when someone posts a question. And I really don't have a problem with the message; if you're going to use Linux, you need to look at the documentation and do some research. I feel the same way about when people buy a digital camera, or a new cell phone. Read the manual, read the documentation. There's a reason why people take the time to write that stuff.
My problem with the Debian forums is that too often people there reply with such rude, condescending, vulgar remarks. And that the forum moderators allow it to happen. It's as if some of the forum members get a big thrill out of berating people, making people feel stupid. It's the one big negative thing about Debian Linux.
There are lots of ways to help people without saying "RTFM."
Some of these guys at the Debian forums, just once I'd like to meet one of them down a dark alley. It's easy to act all big, bad, and tough when you're sitting in front of a computer terminal in your mom's basement. But "real men" don't need to do that. Too many of these guys act like kids who have secret desires to be bullies and the only way they can do it is with a keyboard.
Debian's a great operating system. And the Debian User Forums are loaded with helpful info. But, come on, mods, clean this stuff up. Debian doesn't need this foolishness.
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