The majority of computer users are Windows users with (most of the time) no knowledge of Linux’s existence. Now, on to those who do know about it, and within this category – the people who irritate me the most.

Some people will try Linux, first hand, and give it a go. I like these people, open minds for open source. Things can go two ways here, they persevere with the (usually small) issues they experience, learn and stick at it – or they give up.

These people who give up often go on to spread the sweeping generalisation that ‘Linux is hard’, so in pub conversations when somebody may raise the question of ‘Hey, has anybody tried Linux?’, this gentleman (or women, it would be a sweeping generalisation to assume all Linux users are men, wouldn’t it?) is more than happy to express his opinion: ‘I have, it’s a nightmare. I couldn’t get this to work, or this to work – I’d stay away personally’. Fantastic, Mr Educated – you’ve just scared off a potential addition to the open source movement through your own lack of determination and thought exploration, have a badge.

We have two problems here, however. The people who spread the sweeping generalisation, and the people who believe it. Some people may here a sweeping generalisation and think for themselves, and try something for themselves. The ultimate sweeping generalisation award, however, has to be handed to these people: Those who hear a sweeping generalisation, and then begin to pass it on to others, with no education, knowledge or experience themselves on the matter.

One thing to consider, with operating system choice, is that often somebody may choose to stay with the operating system they are using, not because an alternative is ‘hard’, but because the transition requires effort, patience and time.

Regarding music, I completely relate the statement you’ve heard before of ‘It’s just noise’. I’ve heard it many times myself. You explained very well the detail of this generalisation and I agree whole heartedly.

I think it boils down to education and attitude. I will never voice my opinion on a matter unless I have personal experience or knowledge to be able to back myself up (like yourself). When faced with a situation where somebody informs me about something I have no knowledge of, I bear in mind what they have said, but until I have investigated myself, it’s a just an opinion.

Great rant Rick, and I’m really liking the website!

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Of course I am joking! A very good rant and I pretty much agree with it even if I do partake in a bit of alternative-art-form-i-dislike-bashing now and then.

I suppose it is only natural to put down the things we dislike or consider inferior. That is not to say we should always succumb to it. You don’t have to have an open mind about everything, but at least keep it slightly ajar.