First Blog

  Recognizing logical fallacies. Here are a few tips . As an undergrad, I was always at odds with someone about something, usually based on logic (of some sort). So, Tip #0.  Listen very carefully . Don’t let fuzzy arguments sway you from genuine logic. Some will try. Let’s call this “blowing it past you.” Tip #1, Be certain you are both using the same set of axioms, i.e. thing you accept as true. Not close sets of axioms but identical sets of axioms. Know particularly well your own axioms. Tip #2. Be aware of the “stretch.” Your opponent, says A implies B. Well, maybe A implies B’, but to go to B is a stretch of logic, as in just beyond logical - not quite there. Something like sleight of hand. Tip #3. Is your opponent using “authority” to make conclusions? For example, one says that Bertrand Russell said that, and thus you must believe it. Authority is often a powerful argument, often used by religious and political persons, to end the discussion. Tip #4. Stand your ground.

Power and Privilege, two power words of our day.  Most people want at least one; some want both. So, is there a difference? Power is a general term that implies the ability to shape conditions, control people, or enhance particular goals. Power has many forms, of which privilege is only one. Privilege is usually conferred, but general power is seized. Here are a few other forms of power.  Privilege Good looks Money Property Ability Knowledge Authority Family Leadership Some people have only one.  Others have a few, but few have all.

From computer gaming, to video streaming, to safe-spacing, to virtual friending, to at-home working, to neo -spiritual believing, it seems younger Americans are shifting from the old-world of living to a new -world of fantastical being, realizing, understanding . When you believe in the consequences of an unproven theory, you live in faith or fantasy. (Welcome alt-universe believers. Not to mention anti-oxidants-cure-all fans.)    To extend your range of influence beyond your domain of authority is both tactically and strategically risky. (Welcome Pope Francis and Hollywood types.)