SMILIES pro versus con

[SteveDallas]

Originally Posted by Flint

The format of pure text . . .

Originally Posted by Flint

Given that we have the ability to format text in order to emphasize words approximately the way they would be spoken

So what you're saying is that if one can't express what one intends in "plain" text then it's OK to change the text in certain ways, but not to actually add something to the text. For that matter, where does punctuation fit in? Don't we use punctuation all the time to give clues to the readers about what we intend, clues that we presume would be present aurally and in body language if we were speaking the same words? What's the difference between using "!" to indicate a sense of shock and using ?

You're also assuming that people will pick up the cues from spoken words. It doesn't always happen. Some people can't figure out what's going on if you hit them over the head with a 2x4, much less a smilie.

Originally Posted by Flint

people would be better served by the use of proper English sentences

I'll agree with this. Because you're writing something in an informal context on the Internet is no reason to get all loopy with your spelling and your grammar. Having said that, I gave up being a grammar nazi a long time ago because life's just too short. (I do occasionally point something out if it results in some kind of double entendre that amuses me.)

Originally Posted by Flint

That degrades us all, as human beings.

You're being hyperbolic I hope. I personally use the smilies for entertainment value. Although sometimes in the wrong hands they can devolve into stupidity, I can't make a case for "degrading." If it's that bad for you I can't see how you can stand to continue reading The Cellar. (Unless, that is, you're just into degradation. In which case, have fun. )