Why do people detest top posting so much?

[Thorny]

[Rez]>>> Its down to laziness on those who dont know how to CUT qoutes and
>>> comment inline to them, remove the shit you are not going to directly
>>> respond to,
>>
[Thorny]>> Well Rez, although I agree with most of what you wrote, which I
>> snipped, I do want to point out that whoever is paying for the
>> equipment and maintenance to host the list we are using for free,
>> probably does have some inherent right to specify terms of service. If
>> there is a standard then people who want to use the list probably
>> should consider following it.
> 
[Rez}> So, it they insisted we all correct grammar and punctuation, does
that
> mean we need to? I can see their list server being in idle state for
> most of its life if that's the case. They have a right to ensure its not
> being abused thats for sure, but telling people how to post that does
> not contain abuse (yes I've been guilty many a times) or threats etc, is
> surely unenforceable.
>
Setting a standard mode of conduct is not exactly the same as insisting.
Generally, it is the community that does the enforcing. When the members,
in general, don't tolerate unwanted behaviour. Much of the time, all that
is necessary is for it to be pointed out to a poster and supported by a
few other "regulars" (I don't have a strict definition of regular in this
case). As I'm sure you are aware, in moderated forums it often is more of
an "insist" nature, but because of forum structure this "posting style"
issue doesn't occur as often. Since you mention usenet below, I also
imagine you're familiar with the need to wear a flamesuit there. Aren't
things better here where we have a measure of respect for each other.

Naturally, nothing means we "need to", similar to the way we can choose to
not obey the laws in our area, it just makes life easier in most cases.
Society doesn't work because all laws are enforced every time, but
because most people follow them most of the time without enforcement.


[Thorny]>> In addition, if there is a format which increases the chances
that
>> someone asking for help will get help from the most knowledgeable and
>> helpful...
> 
[Rez]> That's the same for everywhere, being it lists or usenet, but it
someone
> is so pedantic they wont help someone because the seeker top posted, I
> think that says one HELL of a lot about the person who refuses to help
> them, and nothing about the one seeking help.
>
Perhaps it does. However, that doesn't invalidate my point, the person
seeking help wants the best help they can get, thus asking the best way
can be the most productive. Following community standards is often the
best way.