Brother Marcus is a Jerk [Archive] - Wizards Community

Post/Author/DateTimePost
Gamandria

08-17-06, 01:25 AM
:d
Salla

08-17-06, 02:18 AM
I'm inclined to agree, however insulting the other posters is a violation of the Code of Conduct, so really ... you shouldn'ta done this.

Besides, if you're stooping to his level, you can't spit on 'im. :D
Azezel

08-17-06, 05:13 AM
singing

Troll troll troll your post,
Gently down the Feed,
Verily verily verily verily,
a Life is what you Need.
Thanqol

08-17-06, 05:14 AM
Why, sir, you have slandered that man's honour! We must fight it out with our bare knuckles to resolve this dispute! It's the *good* thing to do, because I would rather spare you the pain of losing the debate!

[ :P Sorry, couldn't resist! *Slinks away*]
was_fired

08-17-06, 05:14 AM
Kudos az
WayneTheGame

08-17-06, 07:09 AM
Well, the obvious comment is that if you have an issue with another poster, take it up in a PM or if necessary, PM a WizO. Starting a thread on the boards saying that "So-and-so is a jerk/sux/etc." is essentially flaming and makes you no better than the person in question.
Tormsskull

08-17-06, 07:36 AM
Read my sig. I got flamed to the ends of high heaven because I told someone their opinion on something was unsubstantiated. That poster sent me a very offensive PM. I PMed the message to WizO_Cat who told me that they don't moderate PMs because there is no way to verify their authenticity.

I said I thought it was a bad idea in this day and age due to all of the internet predators and such. She said that in a case like that, the WizO's would then interfere. So, I guess the bottom line is that you can PM him and call him anything you want as long as you don't offer him candy and ask him to get in your black van.
coldfire_x

08-17-06, 07:54 AM
what's going on?
did i missed something?
Ankalagon

08-17-06, 07:58 AM
This post gives a certain credibility to the discussed board member.

And oh yes, I believe he is a big MEMBER! but let the wizo's deal.
Pegasos989

08-17-06, 09:19 AM
Well, yeah! I mean, who the hell makes a monk with wis 6 "For roleplaying". :D He died in the first session!


Waaaait a min, you were talking about a board member. Nevermind then...

I do think that the member has some serious problems on listening people's views and has a few too deeply decided opinions. However, I think I have actually seen some helpful posts from him in some threads and that is a lot more than I can say about many people here.
Yami

08-17-06, 09:34 AM
In before the lock! w00t!
The_Black_Dragon

08-17-06, 10:28 AM
Read my sig. I got flamed to the ends of high heaven because I told someone their opinion on something was unsubstantiated. That poster sent me a very offensive PM. I PMed the message to WizO_Cat who told me that they don't moderate PMs because there is no way to verify their authenticity.

I said I thought it was a bad idea in this day and age due to all of the internet predators and such. She said that in a case like that, the WizO's would then interfere. So, I guess the bottom line is that you can PM him and call him anything you want as long as you don't offer him candy and ask him to get in your black van.
I tried PMing him last night. I got a message saying that BrotherMarcus won't take PMs. I think he's opted not to take PMs in order to not be bugged further over his idiocy.

So now he's an ass and a coward.
Arganis

08-17-06, 10:32 AM
they don't moderate PMs because there is no way to verify their authenticity.
...
She said that in a case like that, the WizO's would then interfere

I can only assume that by default, WizO's don't have direct access to PMs in the board database, because the data there would be as comprehensive as the data for a normal post in terms of origin and authenticity. It's good to know that they can get access if actual laws are being broken.

But, to keep this post on topic, with respect to Brother Marcus' contraversial behavior, I feel compelled to point out the following:

Within the d20 game, races are regularly granted statistics that demonstrate their superiority in certain arenas, and yet this is not widely considered to be racism. Personally, I do not believe that Orcs deserve the charisma penalty that the RAW attributes them. Other gamers disagree with me, but I do not call them racist against Orcs. Why then is it considered sexist to pursue an avenue by which physiological differences between males and females could be represented? I do not agree with Brother Marcus that these physiological differences are significant or pervasive enough to warrant stat modifiers, but he seems to. This is his belief just like it is my belief that Orcs are not uncharismatic.

Now granted, I am talking about Orcs (which are not real last time I checked) and he is talking about women (and though I haven't checked within the past 3 weeks, I'm pretty sure they did exist at that time), but hopefully my point is clear. Despite Brother Marcus' poor attitude about the whole deal, he is trying to build the game he wants to play, just like the rest of us.

That goes for NPCs based on religious figures as well. Marcus' persistence and evangelism aside, why is it acceptable to discuss the stats for Zeus or Tiamat, but not conventional Christian entities? Are these creatures fair game because they are [now] considered mythological? Do we not have to respect the religious beliefs of the dead? If we can talk all day about how to represent demons and devils and "pagan" deities, but are not free to discuss representations of widely accepted religions, how do we expect the world to overlook the stereotype that D&D caters to satanists?

I do of course understand that most of the problem with such topics is the debate they produce, but is it really a more mature approach to stick our fingers in our ears and start yelling LA LA LA real loud?
MojoMonkeyMan

08-17-06, 10:43 AM
So, I guess the bottom line is that you can PM him and call him anything you want as long as you don't offer him candy and ask him to get in your black van.

Actually, I prefer the plain, white vans.
Sapp

08-17-06, 10:47 AM
<snip>Sure, you can stat out Christian entities. The Vedic gods were statted once upon a time.

You can also grant bonuses or penalties based on gender. I think gender differences could warrant bonuses or penalties. I do think they are significant enough. For example, a female Monstrous Spider should definitely be stronger than a male Monstrous Spider if they were to be fantastical, enlarged representations of real-world mundane spiders. What I have against this is that it adds yet another bit of complexity to the game.

Ok, so female vermin get gender bonus to str and con... Female Succubi get gender bonuses whereas Male Incubi do not... Male abominations get Wis bonus where female abominations don't... Not much, but it hurts to see stuff arbitrarily tacked on when it often doesn't make a difference and often ends up in a long pointless debate that hurts your "moral character". Not worth the effort for so little and pointless gain.

That said, these forums are unfortunately tightly monitored by people with the rights to lock down threads they think may be inflammatory. Statting out deities of existing popular religions and offending an entire gender or race tends to be inflammatory. These privately owned boards are not exclusive to mature adults, which is why they'll lock up especially flammatory topics. It's the same way rated-R movies shouldn't be shown to kids. That's why I think Brother Marcus was rather mislead in his ignorant belief in his freedom of speech.
Arganis

08-17-06, 11:00 AM
That said, these forums are unfortunately tightly monitored by people with the rights to lock down threads they think may be inflammatory. Statting out deities of existing popular religions and offending an entire gender or race tends to be inflammatory. These privately owned boards are not exclusive to mature adults, which is why they'll lock up especially flammatory topics. It's the same way rated-R movies shouldn't be shown to kids. That's why I think Brother Marcus was rather mislead in his ignorant belief in his freedom of speech.

Oh I think Brother Marcus is mislead on several issues, but you are right. This board is run by a private company and you must accept their terms to gain the priviledge of posting here. I suppose it is simply a shame that these terms perpetuate intolerance as much as they discourage it.

It's also interesting that you bring up movies, which are chock-full of violence and carnage even at the PG level, but when they include sexual content, religious conflict, or political commentary, are considered inappropriate for children.
Arivia

08-17-06, 11:17 AM
I tried PMing him last night. I got a message saying that BrotherMarcus won't take PMs. I think he's opted not to take PMs in order to not be bugged further over his idiocy.

So now he's an ass and a coward.

*snerk*

Bahaha.

That said, these forums are unfortunately tightly monitored by people with the rights to lock down threads they think may be inflammatory. Statting out deities of existing popular religions and offending an entire gender or race tends to be inflammatory. These privately owned boards are not exclusive to mature adults, which is why they'll lock up especially flammatory topics. It's the same way rated-R movies shouldn't be shown to kids. That's why I think Brother Marcus was rather mislead in his ignorant belief in his freedom of speech.

I'm a budding Women's Studies major, and I have no trouble with that thread idea. His execution was terrible and prejudiced, but it's a valid topic otherwise.
Sulaco

08-17-06, 11:35 AM
No matter what you think of another poster, this kind of thread is strictly verboten by the CoC. My opinion of Brother Marcus would also be in violation of the CoC and so I will keep it to myself, I would suggest anyone else who wishes to remain a member here do the same. There are a lot of thing the WizOs are less strict about, this is not one of them.

Don't get yourself banned cos of another user.
Sapp

08-17-06, 11:37 AM
*snerk*

Bahaha.

I'm a budding Women's Studies major, and I have no trouble with that thread idea. His execution was terrible and prejudiced, but it's a valid topic otherwise.
The fact that there exists one mature person such as yourself to discuss such a weak idea doesn't mean that everyone else will unanimously approve.

Besides, it is a very weak idea. Even by Marcus's standards, 10% less muscle mass, that averages out to -1 penalty to Strength if we assume that 10 or 11 is the average. Then we balance the penalty out with bonuses to other stats. Is it really that important when to argue over those when you can use legitimate templates or simply, you know, use the point-buy system and design male and female PCs the way you want to? And just ignore that player next to you that dared give his female character 18 strength? Is it really worth getting into a fight over? (And just because I refuse to fight over such a triviality, my manhood is at stake? I suppose the fact that I spar with people for sport isn't enough. I need to fight people over trivial matters to further enhance my mojo.)

Yes, I know Marcus proposed a -2 penalty, but who honestly thinks of him as an authority figure on basic mathematics anyway? (10% penalty off 10 or 11 is simply a -1 penalty, for his information)
Someone who actually thought the Monkey Grip feat was overpowering, and can't even handle the balance of a game with just the core rulebooks. Please.

It might have been a valid topic if enough intelligent players would care about making their game 10 times more complex over a -1 penalty here and a +1 penalty there. It completely contradicts what he stated earlier about "paying too much attention to numbers".
Arivia

08-17-06, 11:40 AM
The fact that there exists one mature person such as yourself to discuss such a weak idea doesn't mean that everyone else will unanimously approve.

Besides, it is a very weak idea. Even by Marcus's standards, 10% less muscle mass, that averages out to -1 penalty to Strength if we assume that 10 or 11 is the average. Then we balance the penalty out with bonuses to other stats. Is it really that important when to argue over those when you can use legitimate templates or simply, you know, use the point-buy system and design male and female PCs the way you want to? And just ignore that player next to you that dared give his female character 18 strength? Is it really worth getting into a fight over? (And just because I refuse to fight over such a triviality, my manhood is at stake? I suppose the fact that I spar with people for sport isn't enough. I need to fight people over trivial matters to further enhance my mojo.)

Yes, I know Marcus proposed a -2 penalty, but who honestly thinks of him as an authority figure on basic mathematics anyway? (10% penalty off 10 or 11 is simply a -1 penalty, for his information)
Someone who actually thought the Monkey Grip feat was overpowering, and can't even handle the balance of a game with just the core rulebooks. Please.

It might have been a valid topic if enough intelligent players would care about making their game 10 times more complex over a -1 penalty here and a +1 penalty there. It completely contradicts what he stated earlier about "paying too much attention to numbers".

Never said it was right --- just a valid topic of conversation.
Sergikins

08-17-06, 11:47 AM
brother marcus is a jerk.
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y288/tipomastr/kittytrap.gif
Arganis

08-17-06, 11:52 AM
I get so excited when I see Sergikins as the latest poster in a thread. I clasp my hands in joy and like a child at christmas, carefully unwrap the thread to see what present he has given me...

In this case only to find recycled footage! :weep:
Sapp

08-17-06, 11:52 AM
Never said it was right --- just a valid topic of conversation.
It is valid only by technicality.

The mere fact that the idea he is proposing is so trivial though that the topic itself, no matter how it's delivered or who it's delivered by, is intrinsically offensive.

I know topics themselves should be valid, but they aren't always.

For example, suppose your topic was, "I think darker skinned people should get a +1 bonus on fortitude saves against sickness after 12 hours of exposure to the sun." That topic is inherently stupid and so trivial/inconsequential yet complex you simply have to assume it was written with the intent to offend and not to inspire debate.
Why would someone bother with the topic? Why add the unnecessary complexity of having to remember how many hours you've spent sitting in the sun or under the shade?

I fail to see how you can actually possibly make that kind of topic legitimate.

The same feeling applies to the gender subtemplate. What monster types get what bonuses from what gender? Shouldn't it change? What's the benefit? 10% more strength? You're arguing over 1 more point of strength for an unofficial template (which will be balanced out by a penalty to another) by adding a plethora of house rules?

I don't buy that. Common sense dictates that the topic is invalid. Valid only by technicality.
Sulaco

08-17-06, 11:52 AM
Never said it was right --- just a valid topic of conversation.

Potentially so, yes, but the truth is that it would quickly, nay instantaneously, degenerate into arguments, insults, and blatant sexism. Some folks here can conduct themselves in a mature manner, even if they disagree, but far too many cannot.
Sergikins

08-17-06, 11:59 AM
I get so excited when I see Sergikins as the latest poster in a thread. I clasp my hands in joy and like a child at christmas, carefully unwrap the thread to see what present he has given me...

In this case only to find recycled footage! :weep:

oh, I'm so sorry. it looks like i have a following

does this make up for it?
http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y288/tipomastr/gamemastering.jpg
Arganis

08-17-06, 12:01 PM
Oh god, what have I done!
Vaalingrade Ashland

08-17-06, 12:05 PM
I'm totally sure its a smurf. And old account yes, but a smurf nonetheless. Just going on post history alone.
speeblefreak

08-17-06, 12:18 PM
@Sergikins: :uh-huh:

@topic creator: I agree, but I choose not to elaborate as this thread is doomed anyway.
Sergikins

08-17-06, 12:21 PM
I'm totally sure its a smurf. And old account yes, but a smurf nonetheless. Just going on post history alone.
what is a smurf exactly? i don't know exactly what you mean, but i can assure you this is my only account on the wizards boards
Vaalingrade Ashland

08-17-06, 12:32 PM
what is a smurf exactly? i don't know exactly what you mean, but i can assure you this is my only account on the wizards boards
I wasn't refering to you, actually.
Salty_Boy

08-17-06, 12:51 PM
But that doesn't answer the question and now my curiosity is piqued. What's a "smurf"?
Vaalingrade Ashland

08-17-06, 12:57 PM
A 'smurf' or MuP is a second account people use, either in the event of thier being banned, or to say things they wouldn't in thier regular persona.
Arganis

08-17-06, 01:08 PM
Sock puppet is another term too.
Arivia

08-17-06, 01:25 PM
Sock puppet is another term too.

And the correct terms, according to the Jargon File (the true arbiter for this sort of thing), are pseudo and tentacle.
BopLouie

08-17-06, 02:34 PM
"Smurf" "Sock puppet" "Pseudo" "Tentacle"

Hmm, wondered if I googled that what kind of scary stuff would pop up.... :P

On a side note, I agree with the OP.

On another side note, I enjoy the occasional croissant.
Arganis

08-17-06, 02:40 PM
On another side note, I enjoy the occasional croissant.

Look man, if you can't keep on topic, this thread is gonna get axed. :rofl:
necrom99

08-17-06, 02:42 PM
A 'smurf' or MuP is a second account people use, either in the event of thier being banned, or to say things they wouldn't in thier regular persona.


wow i had never even heard of that......that is THE most cowardly thing i've ever heard of.........EVER
rhflyweyr

08-17-06, 02:43 PM
/me wonders how this thread is still open.
Vestigial_Thumb

08-17-06, 02:50 PM
I used to be a troll. Then I evolved (like a Pokemon :)) into another kind of monster.
Arganis

08-17-06, 02:52 PM
wow i had never even heard of that......that is THE most cowardly thing i've ever heard of.........EVER

Some people, especially those with contraversial views or intentions, are not as trusting with their personal information as you or I, Daniel.

Doubly so if, like children, they view the internet as a playground for their own riskless amusement.
FangsofChaos

08-17-06, 03:06 PM
First of all while it's nice to see a fellow wrestling fan on here, I have to say I see enough of Vince McMahons rear end on Raw thank you. I for some reason feel compelled to give a peice of advice: DON'T FEED THE TROLLS!!! :teach:
tsuyoshikentsu

08-17-06, 03:29 PM
I used to be a troll. Then I evolved (like a Pokemon :)) into another kind of monster.One with a vestigial thumb? :D

Seriously, why is this still here?
Vestigial_Thumb

08-17-06, 03:31 PM
One with a vestigial thumb? :D
Oh crap, they're onto me!*runs away*
Seriously, why is this still here?
Me or the thread?
Arganis

08-17-06, 03:33 PM
One with a vestigial thumb? :D

Seriously, why is this still here?

Patience. It will go away eventually.
kaeso

08-17-06, 03:34 PM
I agree w/ the OP. BM is just one big BM that comes along and makes a big stinky mess of whatever he touches.
Salty_Boy

08-17-06, 03:34 PM
"Smurf" "Sock puppet" "Pseudo" "Tentacle"

Hmm, wondered if I googled that what kind of scary stuff would pop up.... :P

On a side note, I agree with the OP.

On another side note, I enjoy the occasional croissant.
You had me at 'sock puppet'.
KirkBb

08-17-06, 03:52 PM
As much as I agree, it is still a CoC violation to flame other posters, I hope the give you only the tiniest of suspensions, ta ta.
Feriin

08-17-06, 04:12 PM
Though I do beleive that Brother Marcus is an assbag, I do have to agree with one thing he said..

The politically correct crap has to end, seriously if we keep it up the US will cease to be ..
Einvaldurinn_mikli

08-17-06, 04:16 PM
Where is the thread that everyone keeps talking about, that is the one where Brother Marcus makes an ass of himself?
Vaalingrade Ashland

08-17-06, 04:17 PM
Though I do beleive that Brother Marcus is an assbag, I do have to agree with one thing he said..

The politically correct crap has to end, seriously if we keep it up the US will cease to be ..
Some people will never be able to function in polite society -- only a temporal bubble around thier house that is still in the 1950's -- a time when big band was on the radio, a new invention called television was making waves, and certain people couldn't sit at the front of the bus.
Quaoar

08-17-06, 04:33 PM
Where is the thread that everyone keeps talking about, that is the one where Brother Marcus makes an ass of himself?

There were several, but they're all locked now. As this thread will be too... eventually.

Oh, and I agree with the OP.
Vestigial_Thumb

08-17-06, 04:33 PM
Where is the thread that everyone keeps talking about, that is the one where Brother Marcus makes an ass of himself?
That would be any thread with the Original Poster "BrotherMarcus".

BTW, do we have another Icelander here?
Gamandria

08-17-06, 04:35 PM
Some people will never be able to function in polite society -- only a temporal bubble around thier house that is still in the 1950's -- a time when big band was on the radio, a new invention called television was making waves, and certain people couldn't sit at the front of the bus.

I agree with Vaalingrade. While I would never want to legislate Political Correctness, it is useful as a social tool to encourage politeness. Sure he should be able to say those things in a public place, but he not on a private board where people just want to talk about a game. Also, no one talks those kinds of ideas seriously anymore. That discussion ended long ago.
WizO_Cat

08-17-06, 05:00 PM
Ok, keep in mind that making negative comments about another poster is Baiting as well, even in the guest has violated the Code of Conduct. Thus, such actions will result in Official Warns if they continue. If you think that someone has violated the Code of Conduct, report the thread and leave it at that. The moderators will review the situation and take appopriate actions. Thanks.