It's okay to ask of course. My statement was that the ask does not have to be reciprocated.
Personally, unless there's specific claims about data proving something, I usually assume claims on discussion sites to be somewhat informed personal opinions, even if they are worded more strongly than this. I find this to be true more often than not. But I may be more skeptical than your average person regarding the scientific rigor in social sciences, as well as the ability of people to cherry pick specific papers that suit their claim, and therefore place less weight on literature citations versus experiences that I see in my daily life.
Personally, unless there's specific claims about data proving something, I usually assume claims on discussion sites to be somewhat informed personal opinions, even if they are worded more strongly than this. I find this to be true more often than not. But I may be more skeptical than your average person regarding the scientific rigor in social sciences, as well as the ability of people to cherry pick specific papers that suit their claim, and therefore place less weight on literature citations versus experiences that I see in my daily life.