It's pretty simple. Lock down the threads that are likely to get someone's dander up, and don't allow new threads that could lead to more heated exchanges between people, who normally get along with each other. The fact of the matter is, if the "ScaRatings" allows political threads, some of us (including myself) are likely to get into it with each other, especially after a few brewskis. Eliminate political threads, and I doubt this will be a problem going forward.
We all seem to get along and respect each other on non-controversial threads. I say keep the "ScaRatings" going, and let everyone continue to have fun sharing thoughts and ideas with each other. Yeah, you will see good natured kidding on ICEMAN's "Ban the Person Above You" and "Post Baseless Lies About the Person Above You" threads. However, I don't think anyone takes the posts to those threads seriously, and both threads have never gone beyond just silly joshing with each other. If you have a month with nothing to do, read all of the posts on those threads, and I think you will agree that they are harmless, and no one ever is offended by what is posted on them. They're funny, and everybody knows it.
p.s. I've seen some of the threads that have already been locked, and I think you have done the right thing.
p.p.s. I'm done with posting controversial stuff on the "ScaRatings". If by accident I ever violate this, give me one warning, and if I do it again kick me out. I would consider that fair.
Join me in singing this tune:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CX6233Nig18