Hi BlasphemousRumours.

The main reason that people have for suggesting that discussions are held in the open such as in a forum is that when someone speaks rubbish they can be exposed as frauds and/or inept so that others will know not to rely on what they say.

From what I have studied of psychology and human behaviour, I have learnt a great deal about shy people, and I have had to work hard to overcome my own shyness, but am even now apt to revert to hiding inside my shell. I have had anxiety attacks as well as severely depressed periods. Naturally confident people do not understand us.

My door is open to anyone who wants to ask a question. there is no need to ask permission first. I often point people to where they can find the answer to a question on a reputable site rather than try to answer it myself (as many questions are deep and involved). I generally try to answer with my own opinion if I can though - one of the things that has been "drilled into me" that a human being should try to do, and incidentally one of the things I have had to practice doing in order to build my own confidence.

I fundamentally disagree with those that insist that shy people should discuss their business in public. I may, of course, be speaking rubbish according to them when I say that. Our lifestyle is consensual and should not be dictated by the extraverts.

Hoping this helps
VV