RE: virus: RPGs

Jim Gadbois (jim@cyberintl.com)
Thu, 27 Mar 1997 16:50:59 -0600


>
>Jim G. wrote:
>>while I agree with your basic assertation that David K's view can be
>>construed as limiting, your sweeping use of the word "IS" really weakens
>>your argument...
>
>Jim--that's an excellent point! Overgeneralizing through inductive reasoning
>can weaken arguments. Thanks, David.

This is a point I've been trying to develop for some time. I found the
basis for this argument in R. A. Wilson's "Quantum Psycology". He
postulates that the use of the word "is" in any case or form instantly
throws the object so supposed into a static form. one just ripe for bad
memetic coding (imho).
Example: "he IS a failure" (he's in jail for resisting an oppresive
law)
"this bannana IS too ripe" (not if you are a monkey)
"you ARE wrong" (I am just not listening to you, I've made up my
mind)

in a way, the word IS creates memes by placing a concept into a
concrete form, a box ready to be shipped out.

Ideas are (whoops there it is again...) too slippery, and the
consequences of their implimentation can be too greivous to limit them
by shooting from the hip with the EVIL WORD "IS".

if anyone cares to challenge me I'll attempt, from now on, to abstain
from the use of this word...

GADDY
"I am"
> the
LORD HIGH FIXER OF JUPITER
PROTECTORATE OF THE MOON (in eclipse)