ken_b - 2:49 pm on Jun 15, 2006 (gmt 0)

It seems to me that the idea that authoritative answers eliminate the need for further answers is probably true less often than not.

Depending on the question, I wonder if an authoritative answer doesn't beg for a "me too" answer or two at least.

The reason is the confirmation of authority for the questioner. A long time forum member might know from experience that poster x is an authority on the subject at hand. But a new user most likely won't know that.

Since some posters can state the wrong answer with a clearly athoritative tone, the need for other members to isn't hard to imagine.

While "me too" authority confirming type posts may be somewhat annoying for long time forum members, they might play a critical role in establishing a trust level for newer members that could be essential to drawing them into a more regular participation.

I dunno, maybe it's it's about finding a balance.