The best scientific method (Bayesian form of H-D)

Some have recently claimed here that calling a member a self-deluded crank is not an ad hominem. This is, IMO, completely prejudicial and unfair. While someone may be behaving as an utter jerk (just an example), if I call him a jerk, that is an ad hominem, and poisons the well of dialogue. If a person behaves as a jerk, the aspersions they cast is upon themselves. If I insult them the aspersion I cast is on myself, as one who abandoned rational discourse and stoops to pelting mud.It seems common in opinionated boards hosting people of very differing views to gang up on the opposition. I hope folks here do not succumb to that temptation, and if they do, they at least let it be done with wit! [This message has been edited by Tamara, 02-26-2004]

Hi Percy.
Can you provide evidence that the word "crank" has internet-specific definition, like troll? I was unable to find such. I did find this definition:
a whimsically eccentric person (syn: crackpot, nut, nutcase, fruitcake, screwball)