Didn't intend for this to be a gun thread. That was just the example I used.
I think I have been challenged on many levels on this board and I find it all very stimulating.
Intellectually - More than once I had to delve into some research to back up my position or to refute another. Great learning experience.
Socially - Dealing with abuse or ridicule in the best possible way, the BBS is a great place to see it done or practice doing it.
Current Events - Actually a pretty accurate place to get the news. If it's BS someone will call it. If it ain't ..... well someone will call it anyway.

Overall though, pretty accurate reporting.