It is just like real life, only people online don't hear the tone of your voice so they jump the the worst conclusion.

Thus am I misunderstood and so do I wash my hands of this site and its miscreants.

Fuck you you fucking fuckity fuckers.
Dammit.

Often I see, even in what appears to be a well written article, the confusion there must be in whether then or than should be used.

I notice in speaking that the "e" in then is shifting its vowel sound to that of an "a" making it sound like than. At least in American english.

Try these simple rules to keep them apart and properly placed.

1: If it is a choice use than.
I.e.; I would rather have the chocolate than the peanut butter.