Where is the line between self-protection and self-censorship?

I am very wary of asking this question on Fluther. I very nearly asked it on another smaller forum, because I realized I do not feel safe on Fluther. I decided that’s bullshit, so here I am asking it.

We get many questions on controversial topics here. The questions range from those seeking honest information and an open exchange of ideas to those seeking to draw others out in order to ridicule them and their views.

In the past three months, I have been burnt on questions of bigotry and religion. It left a bitter after taste.

After some time to cool down, I asked jellies I respect and friends not on this website what I could do to avoid the unpleasant emotions.

I heard two common themes.

I was told to grow a thick skin. Frankly, I don’t want one. I like being sensitive and feeling things. I want to be accepted for that.

I was told more often to ignore the controversial topics. I disagree. Ignoring in that case is self-censorship, and that’s bullshit. I shouldn’t have to remain silent to protect my own peace of mind. I should be treated with respect simply because I’m human.

Before I hear that participation in certain threads, which leads to feeling negative emotions, being my fault, I would assert that is blaming the victim. I believe I should be free to participate in any thread I wish without the fear of ridicule.

I am honestly looking for a mature way to participate on Fluther and remain true to me at the same time. I enjoy exchanging ideas on a very wide range of topics.

The idea I must censor me is vile and insidious.

When does protecting oneself by ignoring certain whole sections of questions become self-censorship?