Prior to internet forums

How did people function? How would you possibly be able to make a decision between Nikon and Canon without being able to reference a pro photographer's blog about which brand he is getting paid to use? How would you make a decision about a camera system when there were no sensors and only film which you could use in either system?! How did you determine the "sharpness" of a lens if you didn't have the ability or let alone computer to blow up an image to a 100%? How on earth would you know how to spend your disposable income?? :o

I think everyone here has a mild case of OCD.