I doubt that the conflict between owning bonds and bond funds can ever be completely resolved. Each choice has certain advantages and is preferred in some situations.

But I don't think the function of Motley Fool discussion boards is to resolve those conflicts and decide winners and losers. To educate, to inform, to entertain.

The idea is to make people aware of the choices and their advantages and disadvantages (and especially hidden fees and pitfalls) so they can make informed decisions for their own situation.

Each of us makes his or her own choices. One size does not fit all situations.