re: Why is the discourse here so hateful?

Because deep inside we are all still little kids who love to have fun, tease, kid and joke with people, play pranks, and find each other's weak spots. Maybe you were one of those kids who didn't learn to give as good as you get and so you were mercilessly picked on. I willingly fought and got my arse whooped by guys when I knew they'd whip my arse, but we became great friends because they respected me for giving as good as I got.

So, I just consider this place just one big boys club talking shite to each other because in 'polite society', people lose that inner, fun-loving kid to the seriousness of adulthood and never figure out that small doses of immaturity keep you from becoming boring.

On his 18th birthday I toasted to my son that "Aging is mandatory, but maturity should always be optional. Use the wisdom that comes with age to navigate life, but never let yourself be the old guy in the room. Become as rich as a Warren Buffett, but enjoy life like an Elon Musk, and you'll be just fine."

So 4cubbies, learn to chill out, and find your inner smartassed kid. This place ain't polite society.