As far as forums go, this one is TOP-NOTCH! The mods are great, and do a great job of maintaining things and keeping order. Even the overall design of the site is the best! I have been a member on several forums, and none can compare to the quality of this site. The search function actually works, unlike other forums.
As far as unpleasantness, it's going to happen here and there. There are always going to be those that insult, stir up trouble, or antagonize. Such is life. I have had a (minor) dust-up or two here. Sometimes an argument is worth having, but sometimes it is definitely not. Express your point of view respectfully. I have been wrong many many times, and I'm okay with other members here telling me so. That's why I'm here. We are all opinionated to some extent, some much more than others...
I have gleaned so much knowledge from other members that contribute, and I hope that my experiences that I post about can be of use.
It is extremely difficult at times to turn the other cheek when someone jabs you. However, that is the only way to beat a troll. If you retaliate, it will escalate to the point where the mods get involved. That type of discourse does nothing to contribute to the forum, and can result in one or multiple parties being banned.