Re: logic makes a comeback

Brian D Harper (harper.10@osu.edu)
Tue, 10 Jun 1997 21:55:05 -0400

At 12:58 PM 6/10/97 EDT, Jim Bell wrote:
>Russell writes:
>
><< But at least I am not claiming to be the holder of an objective, universal,
>eternal moral standard.>>
>
>STOP THE PRESSES! RE-DO PAGE ONE! HEADLINE: "RUSSELL STEWART ADMITS
>MATERIALIST MORALITY IS NOT OBJECTIVE, UNIVERSAL OR ETERNAL. CYBERSPACE
>STUNNED."
>
>INTERNET (AP)--Russell Stewart, self-described atheist, stunned the
>cyber-world today by admitting he does not hold "an objective, universal,
>eternal moral standard." Aghast reflectorites dropped their collective chins,
>as they had for weeks been explaining why a materialist cannot make claims of
>moral duty that apply to all people. Stewart had been fighting, many say
>illogically, to deny the consequences of his philosophy. With today's
>admission, that is no longer possible.
> Jim Bell, one of many adversaries Stewart has faced, commented, "It's
>been a long, rather frustrating debate. But we have finally established the
>point that began this entire dialogue, namely, that materialist morality
>cannot condemn other people's behavior. That is because, by definition, it is
>not objective, universal or eternal." Bell, celebrating at his home, is
>considering a run for national office.
>

Press Release: Jim Bell, formerly obscure lawyer, enters the
political arena. Shows he has necessary qualifications to be
Bill Clinton's press secretary. Rumor has it that his next
press release will go something like this:

STOP THE PRESSES! RE-DO PAGE ONE! HEADLINE: "RUSH LIMBAUGH
FINALLY ADMITS HE'S A CONSERVATIVE !!!!!"

Brian Harper
Associate Professor
Applied Mechanics
The Ohio State University

"Quantum physicist and Jungian analyst, when dropped from
a great height, fall at the same rate of speed, their
descent unaffected by speech or creed" -- David Berlinski