Why does Perl Monks work?

I think the main reason is the atmosphere at the Monastery. Even if one discounted its constant presence of experts in the various timezones necessary for getting quick answers, our cloister would still work because one monk's knowledge tends to complement another's; so many monks are willing to share what they know, whatever their individual motivations may be.

I think most of us can answer your question through introspection. I just asked myself how I feel about participating in this community. Apart from some flirtations with IRC about 10 years ago, I never really had any interest in on-line forums---and this despite my desperately needing help. People tend to behave in the manner others expect them to. Here in the Monastery, the expectations are high.

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Allolex

Update 2003-07-13 20:44:33 CEST: I probably should add that I actually did read the article. I especially enjoyed the reference to "religious veneration". At least we're honest here ;)