People who sit on "know-how"

I agree.

 

I'm going to toss in my .02 here.

I think a lot of times the people who post asking for identification, simply do not care to know how we know. To them it is a widget made by XYZ company. That info alone is good enough for their own satisfaction.

There have been a few requests for id where the OP has asked how to aid them in the future but the majority simply do not ask.

 

This is an interesting thread that caused me to reflect on my own behavior. I've been a longtime student and collector in a few distinct areas (fine art, antique violins and Chinese porcelain and jade), and I sometimes read threads related to these topics. At times I could give feedback that could be valuable but often I don't speak up. The reason being my feedback has little value without an established forum reputation as an expert in the subject area. This doesn't offend me, rather I see it as sensible. I simply don't have the time to search through thousands of books in my library to offer a recognized authorities name and reference and I don't feel like justifying my own expertise, so I remain silent and move on.

Really not trying to hoard knowledge but don't see a way to share value that won't require years of time consuming forum posts with references so as to become a legitimate subject expert in the eyes of forum members.

Certainly not intending to be offensive, just thinking out loud.

 

Indeed.
Exactly what I do. If I don't know for certain I will use words like may or might or you might want to check that.

 

Much like a riot response in there is it?
Fire hoses, tear gas, rubber bullets and all?

 

Ah HA! A hold out!

Seriously, if you have an opinion based on acquired expertise, you should voice it. As many have mentioned, many people here base their opinion on their personal experience and if that experience is stated, that in itself lends validity to an opinion. Your opinion should give the questioner a base point to explore and learn more about the subject. Of course quoting a source is "nice", and many users do, but I do not think it should be necessary unless a discussion gets to the point that no one can really come to a valid conclusion. There is always the chance that you will clash with someone else with expertise in the same area, but any discussion leads to learning if personalities and egos don't get involved.

Just my selfish opinion..............selfish, 'cause you know something I don't know and I WANT TO KNOW IT TOO................

 

That and more........much more..................LOTS more........

 

For many items that is entirely true.
Glass, china and silver patterns/makers are needed, names for important costume companies is important. But I do agree that there are many things where the maker is not the important thing about an item.

 

All opinions are important. It is up to us to determine if the information you provide leads to us determining what an item might be. So you could always suggest we investigate a particular area.
The more you point us in the right direction, the more value your contributions will have and thus a reputation is born.

 

Trailboss, we would be happy with your input. In this forum all voices are appreciated.

 

The reason being my feedback has little value without an established forum reputation as an expert in the subject area.

If that were true.......none of us would ever offer an opinion.
This site was, is & never will be only about experts offering up unassailable factual data.
It's a community of members , each having their own experience & knowledge to offer on any given subject or item.
Sure, some have more knowledge than others in specific areas....some research quicker and more keenly & some suggest tips or hints that can lead to a resolution .......BUT.......all are welcomed to comment & we are greater than the sum of our parts !!

So get off the damn fence & join in the fray .....you may be glad you did !