Charlie,

I think you, Michael and I all share the same love... of course, I can't think of a better way to increase one's knowledge than a good ole fashioned debate. I think the difference is, none of us really care if we "convert" someone, we just love learning through voicing our own opinions and listening to other's thoughts. I am in 100% agreement with a lot of what Michael has said and with most of what you have said... I have, however, not changed my position on the manner eBay manages their feedback process. It is mandatory that a user earn feedback and rather quickly I may add (how many listings have you seen where it says... "don't bother bidding on my item is you have a feedback rating of less than 10!"). Also, try listing an item with a feedback rating of less than 10 and have someone else list an identical item with a feedback rating of 100 and see who receives the highest bids! I suspect eBay settled the case quietly... however, most users aren't as astute as Michael and haven't seen the case has been dropped. I bet the average user that's seen the case in the media is still affected... just like a lawyer asking a question in court that ultimately gets objected and sustained... the jury still heard the question... the answer... and will still be biased in their final judgement.

Charlie, I thought it was a great banter until you ask Michael if he had any law in his background... Man, that was really low! Don't you think you should offer Michael an apology!