One common example of this in geek circles is LaTeX, the typesetting software distribution. There seems to be a gene in some people that gives them the warm fuzzies as soon as they find a cool piece of software which few others are using, especially if there's some slightly cryptic-looking syntax to prevent others from getting in on the action.

LaTeX is good, yes. It is not, however, a justification for the destruction of all word processors ever created and branding their users as people who work in dumb ways. Nor will it kill you to use a word processor if you have to, or if, heaven forbid, it's more convenient in a given situation. Your pathetic cries of inferiority only cause the attention you yearn for to be directed at somebody else.

Linux is a bigger example. If you like Linux, that's fine by me, whatever your reasons. I use it and love it too. But the moment you tell me that you cannot do your work on a Windows computer, it's not Windows' inferiority that's the problem. It's your inability to adjust, your lack of general technical expertise and your ego trying not to get crushed by the fact that your reputation for only using cool non-mainstream software will be sundered.

So what's acceptable here? I think it's pretty simple:

• Don't associate yourself with your tools (conversely, don't judge others by their tools)
• Use the right tool for the job!

We all like to poke fun at companies or their software which we don't like. I'm not complaining about that. A certain amount of banter and bitchiness is healthy and fun. But for goodness' sake, please don't get personal. It is the software which has strengths and weaknesses. Not you. What defines you as an effective computer person is being able to evaluate competing software products or technologies fairly and accurately, and being able to get the most of out each one.

Having done that you can use what you like, but don't come to me for help when you've hamstrung yourself with your own obsessions.