They actually do use technical links quite often, especially when they are asked to back-up a claim that might get some push back on a claim that's not readily believed. That's the difference between someone who thinks they are a SME trying to fool people to believe what they say, verses an actual SME that can link up info to prove he's accurate in their claims. A real SME has no problem showing some kind of technical source link to back up his position. Been that way since BITOG was created.
Who is this "they" of whom you speak?
Let me help you understand how things actually work at the SME level.
The SME ( in a given field) has the professional qualifications, experience and other requirements which establish the basis for the title.
Then when they speak- they carry the authority of that role. The content of the information stands on its own merit for the world to accept ( or not). SME's don't need to "back up" anything (controversial or not) or not. The burden of any legitimate challenge is on the challenger of a given point ( not the SME) to FIRST specify the point in contention, present the alternate case ( to whatever depth it takes) then the peer review begins. ( the challenger has to present their case and be prepared to get what they just gave out)
To directly address the bold, the SME IS a "technical source" and can address it from experience.
Link posters who think because they have a link that means they know "things' don't have that level of knowledge or ability to debate a controversial point- they simply argue in various volumes. That's why they are usually just humored then ignored. Those people do not warrant the effort or consideration ( by the weakness of their position being a link is the only thing they have) to go to any significant length to appease or satisfy them.
I hope that helps you understand
Like obvious bragging all the time
I would like a "link" to all this alleged "bragging" you keep referring to so it can be reviewed properly. Surely you 9 the link demander0 has such that back up your claim don't you? Lets have one illustrating this "bragging".
LoL ... not without some proof, like even a few technical links.
See, I would hold you to the same standard you say you demand. Lets see these "errors" and all this "bragging' you claim. The burden is on you- I'm not aware of any.
So if someone who "thinks" they are some super SME says something, especially if inaccurate, everyone should just sit back and believe them. There's a difference between what someone thinks and says is true, and the actual truth. Not many people sit back and just accept misinformation or misconceptions based on only words without some kind of supporting proof if that's what it takes.
The silence from all these other SME's you claim review everything with links should answer that quite nicely. That fact alone should tell one the points they may feel in question actually are not and are correct and maybe some self introspection is in order. I see you reference "misinformation" and "misconceptions" but never actually produce one for peer review.
Why is that?