I think it’s more important to get acquainted with the subject of philosophy than to start interacting on forums. — Wayfarer

Why not do both at the same time? Since joining TPF for the first time, I've learnt a lot and discovered new authors on a wide range of topics, such as when you suggested I read Alan Watts. For a beginner, I believe there will never be a suitable time to join a forum and engage in argument. Philosophy is complex, and I think it cannot be learnt in our own way.

Sure. Might just be my own experience as I first started reading philosophy decades before the internet existed. And I’ve learned a ton here. But the diversity of views can also be confusing.