Knowing what you typically contribute, I did not read up to your question.  I am not an emeritus professor as I did not retire from a university.  After leaving academia, I founded several companies which is where most of my patents relate too.  Yes, it can be lonely in Eugene and the scientific community is small.  But I am have been elected fellow of several national and international scientific societies and reading the current technical literature is still a substantial pastime.  I spend about an hour/day total spread over multiple intervals commenting.  Believe it or not, I actually believe that an Outsider's view is good as it can stir up thought.  On technical issues, I can actually offer clarification.  Of course, some people could care less for dialog over principles or concepts and immediately target the person.  Such folks learn nothing.  P.S. today I am not feeling well and am spending more time here.