So, I subscribe to a number of history-related mailing lists (let the mocking begin). It helps me keep abreast (insert Beavis laugh, and extra points if you know who Beavis is) of the job market, new publications, upcoming conferences, and whatnot. Translation: it's usually fairly boring. But, BUT! Occasionally someone will post a seemingly mundane question to the list, then one thing leads to another, and all hell breaks loose. Suddenly, history professors across the country scramble to remember how to post a message to the list! Chaos runs rampant! But, honestly, it's not like these guys are debating how best to cure cancer. Today's flurry of activity began innocently enough, about an old history monograph. It quickly devolved into whether or not the Constitution helped or hurt fugitive slaves. Regardless of the topic, whenever this happens, I can't help but picture a bunch of old guys in tweed suits throwing elbows. All decorum goes out the window when the name-calling and wedgie-giving ensues.