Re: Are There Any Actual Physicists/Scientists Here?

On 8 Aug 2005 21:00:23 -0700, "Aydin" <gereka@xxxxxxxxx> wrote:

>> Is it legitimately your business to make such decisions on their
>> behalf? This is a physics forum, not a social services for the
>> average mind organization.
>
> Point taken, although this brings up the question of what the
> purpose of the forum is. I'd value your opinion in this (or anyone
> else's for that matter).

When I first came here over ten years ago I thought it was for
discussing physics topics, including speculation by like minded
interested parties. Not so... as you will (if not already) soon
learn.

> Also let me explain myself and indulge in a bit of self defense.

On the defensive already? :)

> I was taught (in a course I took in my freshman year) that one of
> the social responsibilities of a scientist (and that is what I
> aspire to be) is to protect science from attacks by pseudo-science,
> and endavour that the general public be somewhat knowledgable in the
> ways of science. This may be a flawed opinion, but should somewhat
> explain my actions. In any case I'll take your advice and cease
> replying to posts I consider to be of this kind.

I'll ask you a question, why does 'science' need protection?
Is it not, by definition of its methods, self correcting? Thus
self protecting. The world needs less thought police.

>> Seek some professional help
>I intend to discuss some of the topics I've mentioned in the previous
>paragraph with a physics professor I enjoy chatting with, but I see no
>reason to seek any other professional help.
>
>> and leave the average/weak minded to their own devices until and
>> unless they specifically ask for your assistance
>
> I resent that you consider me to think that people are weak minded,
> I meant to say that the avarage internet users might not be adept in
> recognizing real physics from nonsense wrapped in technical jargon,
> of course I might be quite wrong at that. Apart from that I'll take
> your advice here too.
>
>> or be in danger of becoming another Uncle Al. Of course, if that's
>> what you really want. OTOH be careful what you ask for.
>
> I have no intention of that (no offence Uncle Al).
>
>>> You know, the idea of posting something of this form has its
>>> attractions.
>>
>> No it doesn't. It represents what is known in usenet as a gang
>> mentality. There's more than enough gangup in sci.physics already.
>> You'll see what I mean if you ever make some minor error in a posting
>> or post anything one of a gang doesn't quite understand. Forewarned
>> is forearmed.
>
> I am of course very new to the ways of usenet, the information is
> appriciated. Although I don't mind being corrected or being called
> an idiot.

Alas, sadly, you'll have to get used to it. Manners are not the
strong suit here. My advice (as a very long timer here) reflect
the demeanor of the respondent. They should reap what they sow...

Paul Stowe
.

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