This entire discussion troubles me because it seems like a lot of in-fighting.  I understand that some may have issues with the way Rand has handled things.  But in one of the previous posts it’s mentioned that he should have had contact with Matt Cutts and Google in private.  That he shouldn’t “out” specific sites in the public forum of a blog.   Shouldn’t the SEO community take the same advice?

 I just think it’s a case of people disagreeing and not finding the right way to settle those disagreements.  I don’t think that Rand is right nor do I think everyone else is.  I think if he made a statement in a blog it should be taken with a grain of salt.  A blog is meant to allow a person to write an opinion.  If that opinion is controversial then it will create a discussion.      I think most discussions are positive.  Unfortunately this one seems to be dividing an industry that should be working together against common foes.