I'm new here but aren't [...] bitcointalk bigger than some of the concerns being expressed?
Too big to fail eh?
Shouldn't the aim be to promote bitcoin by making this a safer and more user/noob friendly environment?
How do you feel about the bitcoin subreddit? Do you think that's distracting and everyone should just use this forum instead?
Private, invite only subforums or threads and 100% self-moderation sounds like it would achieve the exact opposite.
Please read the spreadsheet. Private, invite-only is not the norm, just an option, just like how there is a VIP only subforum section on this very SMF forum. You would be arguing that this forum is not promoting bitcoin as a result? I'm not sure if I understand correctly but I recommend reading the spreadsheet and spending more time here to fully understand why something like the forum being proposed is truly necessary for the longevity of bitcoin and discussions.
I actually think some of the issues - particularly around the borked trust system and the enormous number of scammers/scammer accounts on here - could be addressed by having more active mods. (How difficult is it to mark someone with a "Trade Dispute" tag if there are accusations outstanding, then upgrade it to "Scammer" or removing it when resolved? Clone accounts should also be insta-tagged (I'm guessing the mods just don't have the time at the moment.)
There comes a time (like with current world governments) when replacing a few people doesn't solve anything as the system itself is broken. When that realization comes over you, your first instinct will be to fight it. I did, and nothing is changing because it is far too profitable to be lazy here as an admin/moderator. Your next reaction will be to create something better. This is where we are now.