The new system discourages honest and immediate discussion, and makes a mockery of the public forum by mistakenly assuming that a comment that we don't agree with is uncivil.  It's unrealistic to attempt to make controversial discussions completely civil, and any comments that are not will be quickly put down by other commenters.   As a confirmed liberal, I would feel cheated if an equally confirmed conservative didn't take me to task for one of my rants  -  and I believe, visa-versa  -  and even though we can, it's hardly worth the trouble.