if you think a topic is likely to annoy you, then why open it?
Maybe (and this isn't necessarily right) it is to ridicule what has been posted. Maybe to have a look at what has been posted and (sensibly) discuss totally inaccurate reports (as has occurred with some newspaper reports that get linked here). As we know, when stuff is reported in the media, most of use don't have the luxury of being able to directly approach them to point out errors or lies.
I know it's a rumour network. And while there are a great number of forum members who make their living from the aviation industry there are some who, while having a healthy interest, don't. Perhaps in a way it is 'closing ranks' and covering for each other. I know I don't like seeing my workmates being bad-mouthed or having their professionalism questioned or aired out in public. It is the nature of the industry though..............