Personal attacks happen here a lot less than other communities, like sitepoint for example .. you need to know your stuff there or else people are quick to point out you don't.
If there's enough people here being polite, and there are, then hopefully its an example others will follow.
This is a place of creativity and there are many different types of people here with different opinions. So long as a majority are respecting the views and opinions of others, which I believe they do, then the occasional "scuffle" is to be expected and isn't really a big deal, so long as people behave like adults and don't take things too personally.
I'm in awe of some of the talent here to be honest, and having seen so much of it since I've been here I know others in time will discover the same and realize its a privilege to be in the company of some truly nice, skilled, and incredibly talented individuals.
Maybe this site needs a proper logo with a TAG line that reflects the spirit of the community. The Yabb 2.2.3 logo is an eyesore, perhaps it brings out the worst in people.