Matt, I myself don't see a reason to "bash" a stock I have no financial interest in. Time is too precious to waste it that way.
However when I do read a negative post about a stock I own it does give you a reason sometimes to think about the investment.
As an example only....
If I were to come across a WEL "private" board where it was filled with posters talking about oil well fires in Northern Iraq I might be dumb enough to buy. But I would have missed the negative post about them being in default to a small company of Panama origin that could call the loan and BK the company. Taking my investment with 'em.
If you want to have private boards that are still visible, it's my opinion that you need to have a flashing qualifier.
Let all who enter beware, you could be duped!
For those who understand no explanation is needed, ...For those who don't none will.