tjd wrote:
Even if you have the ability to filter, the problem in my book is he
doesn't stick to the inane threads he starts, which are easy enough to
ignore in any case. He also posts in legitmate threads and soon enough
they turn into a steaming pile of crap too.

The reason some threads turn into crap, is because people (including
you) respond to him with off-topic attempts at derision, humor, and
whining. Otherwise his threads would mostly be made up of interesting
replies from experienced people.

[...] I don't understand how anyone can defend his behaviour -

This is usenet. His behavior speaks for itself and is what it is.
He's ungrateful and obstinate. Big deal. Grow up. That describes
half the 'net. What you CANNOT defend is the unbelievably childish and
offensive response to him. Everyone involved in that kind of behavior
should be ashamed.

it's classic trolling and should be met with the
equally classic "RTFM!"

To quote Princess Bride, "I don't think that word means you what think
it means". Anyone calling him a troll has obviously never been really
trolled, and is probably a relative newbie to the online world.

If people didn't respond to him with idiotic comments, then his threads
would be far less wasteful to everyone.

Kev