As regards the "witty curmudgeon", I can understand how he could irritate some folk, but I for one read as many of his answers as possible for two reasons:
- They are generally very witty.
- A lot can be learnt from them.
I have never been on the receiving end of one of his "lashings", but if I were, instead of getting all bent out of shape about it, would rather ponder as to why and learn something from the process.
As has been mentioned before, his karma count, no matter how flawed the karma system may be, speaks volumes about his helpfulness and knowledge.