I think the Internet has opened up this lifestyle to an entire group of people that have little to no interest in any part of BDSM beyond what they see as easy sex. I can call myself a dom and some unsuspecting girl will gladly spread her legs for me.. what a deal. That is where the idea that this lifestyle being about sex has gotten a bad rap, in my opinion. It always has been and always will be about sex, in part. To debate that is foolish. Those that have no interest in the etiquette, the respect and the manners are the ones that are diluting or polluting this lifestyle.

In the "old days" we didn't have much of an Internet to speak of, and the only way to meet other like minded people and learn was to read the few books that were available, mostly "underground" or to attend local groups which held classes and demonstrations and taught how to do things the right way. They stressed respect above all else. They stressed integrity. These things were not optional and if you chose to go against the grain, you were shown the door.

No, anyone can log onto the net, read a few articles, order the latest, greatest toys, and call themselves "experienced". They are dangerous emotionally at best and physically at worst. There are some that take the time to learn, but far too many do not. We cannot protect anyone from their own stupidity for long, so buyer beware.