Why does it seem that some people give one line answers that are poorly researched and usually false?

Question

I answered the question on Gloria Steinem and I noticed that a lot of people gave harsh comments that were supported by nothing but their own beliefs and nothing she actually ever said or did. One man tried to qoute her but misqouted Dunn.

For my answer which only sited actual facts I received numerous thumbs down. I find it interesting; are we against the truth if it does not support what we think?

So why do people give their opinions when their opinions are not based in fact? I was told once by a man I know that it is better to remain silent and appear the fool then to open your mouth and remove all doubt. What do you think?

Answer 1

Since I asked the question you refer to I thought I would throw my own two cents in.

The structure of Yahoo Answers leads you from one question to the next, when you are presented a question that you have little or no interest in a one liner is nearly as easy as hitting next so I would expect many people simply supply a quick answer for effect and move on.

Don't take it personally if you get thumbs down, imagine how boring this world would be if everyone agreed with you.

Answer 2

Because they're too lazy and/or prejudiced to bother with research.

Answer 3

they are entitled to their opinions....I can say alot with very few words....saves time....some ques are too stupid to say alot

Answer 4

if its on Yahoo Answers. then theyre probably just doing it to gain the 2 points...because they really don't know the answer.

Answer 5

My first inclination is that its a website that they don't take very seriously and just use it as a vehicle to express general opinions on subjects...

Oh wait, scratch that, I can't support that with "scientificaly collected empirical data" or research from a peer reviewed academic journal, so it must not be true or worth saying

Answer 6

I see this at times too.  There are some people who answer with one liners who are very educated and give great answers.  Not every answer requires an essay.

But I do think many get offended here when one's belief does not agree with their's.  Just because someone does not agree with you do not mean  they are wrong.

In my opinion I am not sure how you see these quotes...the vary ones you quoted, as non discriminatory towards men.

Answer 7

Reasons why they want the two points, they don't know the answer, it's common knowledge, etc.  

Sometimes the research info used is flawed.

Today statistics can make a sweet potato appear white.

Answer 8

Its prolly cuz -

1. They have said what they needed to say over and over, that they arent interested in explaining it yet another time

2. They find any counter-arguments flimsy.