I'm pretty ignorant about finishing products, but there seems to be a general consensus that "poly" finishes aren't as nice as more traditional shellac/varnish/lacquer finishes. (With certain exceptions, such as high wear or moisture applications.) As I understand it, the poly finishes aren't quite as rich; they're more artificial looking.

Meanwhile, I've recently started using General Finishes' Arm-R-Seal, which the label calls "oil and urethane". I like the stuff, and see quite a few others here use it too. Which leads to my questions...

Is there a difference between urethane and polyurethane? If so, will I understand the difference without a degree in chemistry? Or is the difference of any real concern? Is Arm-R-Seal really a polyurethane, labeled in such a way as to make me think it's somehow better? Will my friends still respect me in the morning* for using a urethane finish, whereas they might not for using a polyurethane? Please edumacate me.

Thanks -

- Vaughn

* OK, we all know they don't respect me anyway, but figuratively speaking...