INPUT TYPE="image" ONCLICK="history.go(-1)"

[Kravvitz]

Whenever possible, these 'optional' technologies shouldn't be depended on -- at least not for a public site with a wide audience. If your site is about JavaScript, or something equally technical, you can make certain assumptions about your audience. But for a general site, it shouldn't matter.

I agree.

A system should be designed to withstand the worst possible set of occurances. If a user doesn't have JavaScript, and has no idea what JS is, the system should degrade gracefully, allowing alternative means of use.

Worst possible... A user using an ancient browser like IE3 or Netscape 3?

Other than that I agree. Web pages should not depend on JavaScript.

I just think people should be aware if for whatever reason their browser does not support technologies that many sites depend on.

[fatnewt]

Well, yeah. But for the most part, it's nearly impossible for a casual user to be set up with technology that's that old and not know that they're out of date.

But more on the point, it's beneficial for a user to be educated on the technology that they're using. But it shouldn't be mandatory, especially when sites are for a public purpose, such as banking, government, shopping, etc. And if you're hoping to sell or advertise, making it as easy as possible for everyone just looks good on your brand.