You're way off base. It has to do with the wolfpack mentality as a means of control. Sometimes you get more flies with honey than you do with shit.
In no way is this forum controlling my life and I really appreciate this forum for what it has to offer. I believe this is a very ugly side that could be softened to create a better business model.
Then go create your own forum and create that better business model you're talking about. Sorry but the reason I love Wayalife isn't just the people on here and the runs that we do, it's also because they actually have rules and and hold those who break them accountable. Go visit another forum and I guarantee you won't see the sense of community anywhere else like you do here. This is a business that Eddie and Cindy OWN so they have every right to run it however they see fit, they also have the right to appoint certain members (moderators) to step in and speak on their behalf to enforce the rules that are set. If you don't like it then leave, no one is forcing anyone to be here.
I think what people are just getting sick and tired of having idiot after idiot joining the community, agreeing to the rules that are set in place and then when they get called out for blatantly breaking the rules they bitch and complain about the rules.
...if Ed would have just made a minor concession none of this would have happened.
Why should Eddie have to do anything? If the OP would have just followed the rules he agreed to none of this would have happened. Do people make mistakes, sure but if the OP would have just said "Sorry everyone, I fucked up, I'll correct my mistake" then this thread would have ended on the first page.
Bottom line is, this place has rules. Follow them or don't is up to you but don't expect anyone here to show their softer side if they don't