You can believe all you want that this is more academic than the rest of Mumsnet, and most posters here are serious and well-informed, but that's not what I've gleaned over a few good years reading FWR.
Most threads here discuss serious topics. Some less so, but they're obviously less serious (like the current 'just for fun' thread). What makes you think most posters aren't serious? Some are better informed than others, obviously, just like in real life. We're not all experts in everything. But in general it's expected that any claims are backed up with evidence.
In general, conversations are more intelligent and thought-provoking, and that's what has kept me coming back.
So you agree that the discussions are intelligent, even though most of us (according to you) aren't serious or well-informed?
However, the level of vitriol displayed towards others that don't toe the party line does make me question that.
Vitriol, if in the form of abuse, is not tolerated on MN, so you should report this. What do you mean by 'toe the party line'? Many different opinions are discussed here. We don't all agree on everything.