I have to say that I'm amazed by the level knowledge that you and others routinely share with us. But I have to also say that this is by far the most intolerant list I've ever monitored. There is a definite old school linux/unix "you haven't earned the right to post here" attitude exhibited by some on this list.
I used to see this sort of criticism all the time on on the Cygwin list. Both that list and this one have some things in common. They are both high-volume lists, both cover a very broad range of issues with lots of subtleties and complexities and both have a wide range of knowledge and expertise among the participants. And both communities are forced by those circumstances to try to hold users in check from silly and ignorant practices in order to keep the list from devolving into such marginal usefulness that those with knowledge to share can't stand wading through the cruft and fluff to avail others of their insights and expertise.
I agree completely. There's no harm in a gentle reminder to follow good etiquette, and on an unmoderated list, the experienced posters need to "enforce" the list standards when someone is out of line. Let's set the example by showing respect for all posters and using our good spirits and humour when we need to make a point.
And "posting skills" really shouldn't be an issue. Shouldn't be, but are...
Sadly, you're right. Jeff