Is it just me, or do questioners pick the answer they want to hear as best answer?

Question

I've noticed that lots of people who ask questions about specific issues (religious and political questions particularly) pick the best answer that agrees with their views. If questioners do this, then what's the point in asking questions?

I realize of course that I'm included in my assumptions re: questioners, I'm just wondering why people have a tendancy to do that. :)

Answer 1

Yeah, didn't you hear? They're changing the name of this to Yahoo Validation.

You just post what you want people to agree with you and pat you on the back for. F--king awesome!

I mean, why engage in meaningful dialogue? Why try to learn from each other? Yo, I'm hyped!

Answer 2

Good point. When I choose best answers though, I first narrow it down to grammar. It's difficult to have your opinion viewed in a neutral fashion if you sound like an idiot. But after that, I do generally tend to pick the responses that are on my side of the argument. I do it because it validates my opinion.
Doesn't mean I don't appreciate seeing the other side of the coin, since that also can help reaffirm or alter my opinion.

Answer 3

Maybe it's because they want to KNOW what they think is the right way TO think. And choosing an answer that fits what they believe, is their way of telling themselves they're right in the first place. The few questions I've asked....were genuine questions I didn't understand or know. And I try to answer those I think I might know, or have an opinion of. Most people on here do the same....but I understand what you're saying, and yes, they do.

Answer 4

The thing is, when it comes to matters of opinion, "best" is generally going to coincide with one's own viewpoint. So if someone asks a question about, say, The Karen Conflict in Burma, if the asker has a particular viewpoint (let's say they want the Burmese govt. to finally recognize Karen as an indpendent nation), they may tend to choose the answer that reflects this viewpoint as "best."

the thing you have to remember about these boards is that much of it is not fact, but opinion. in keeping with that thought process, the best answer category is bound to be subjective.

Answer 5

Not, I don't think it's just you. It's in the nature of the beast to pick the argument that agrees with your opinion... not actually my idea of being open minded, which is why I would ask other's opnions myself.... So, what's the point of asking? I don't have a clue, which is why I haven't asked any.... :-}

Answer 6

Bias happens. We always think those that share our oppinions are more intelligent. Especially in my case .

Answer 7

no you are right but what can you do... i try to choose based on the best answer but yes i am guilty of choosing the one i agree with...

Answer 8

Unfortunately yes.. it seems that way.

Answer 9

denial

Answer 10

this is something to be debated!