i've never participated in forums on politics or religion, only once or twice on sports. those things start out so polarized that it's too much like real life. same with what i read; i read to escape, to get away. audio is like that too. when it gets too real i do something else. i get my fill of reality every day, and don't need to find more of it.
I have been escaping reality via music since 1976 when I got serious about stereo hi-fi. I agree, today's reality from a feel good perspective in general is severely lacking...economy, politics, wars, ect. I'm comforted when I'm in my music bubble. Have a happy T-day Mike.
Best,
Chris