Although I originally felt this was a fan site for science groupies (which is certainly what brought me here), I quickly realized there was a political subtext, a not-so-hidden conflict, going on. The Zoners were ideologically divided, a liberal scientifically oriented group, and a more conservative engineering/technology inclined contingent. The site also had a certain prestige in the overall Space community, people posted here as advanced amateurs or aerospace workers, who were actual professionals working in the field as academics, scientists, engineers, journalists, and even science fiction writers. The Zone had street creds, a rep, in the Space Community. And it had a widespread and influential audience.

I think it is precisely this reputation that led to the political conflicts that erupted here. In my opinion, (and I fully realize that is all it is, an opinion) this is is what led Conservative posters to come here and make the effort to convert, or to discredit, or drive off the more Liberal contributors, and manipulate the character of the site. It was also an attempt to influence its large and influential middle-of-the-road audience. Of course, I also recognize this interpretation may appear to be biased by my own prejudices and preferences; but I will submit it regardless with some confidence. I noticed the political conflict here long before I became involved in it myself, so I am convinced the observation has some objective validity.

Its sad, the battle was won when the Conservatives failed to find their validation, and were unable to use the site’s position and cachet to promote their cause. But by the time they left, the war was lost. All that remains of the old Zone is a ruin, an ancient and abandoned battlefield, picked over by scavengers. And it is a desolation.

I apologize for any role I might have played in that. All I can say in my defense is I didn’t start the fire.

*Signed*, us folks…