I faded from the platform right around the beginning of the pandemic until the fall of 2021, so I wasn't here when it got heated. But I've heard from friends that there was definitely some extremism on both sides. For example I was bummed to see my friend @kiwideb was getting downvoted which prompted her to leave. There aren't too many people more logical and kind then she is.

I guess I'm just glad something kept me away because I tend to view this place as you do, more open minded and reasonable. And the lack of reason was definitely at an all time high for awhile there. Had I expressed certain views I carry- and I very well might have- I may have drawn some animosity myself. Even now there's at least one subject I avoid in nearly every circle except with those I'm certain feel the same. Let's just say I believe the word No is the most powerful one in language lol.

I have to agree with it targeting young girls. Even in my small town the majority of tweens and teens identifying as something other are female. I have wondered if one of the reasons might be population control, but that's just a suspicion,not a fact.

And yeah, I really really hope it doesn't go that far.I just don't like the perfect setup happening that seems like it's just waiting for the perfect storm.

You said you're 23? My kids will be glad to know there are other critical thinkers in their generation, hah! They have a few friends that can be categorized that way, but too few. Let's just say relating to peers has been difficult lately, particularly for my daughter Zoe. She has no patience for people who lack depth of both character and real intelligence.