From: Michael M. Butler (mmb@spies.com)
Date: Wed Jan 22 2003 - 18:07:38 MST
Eliezer S. Yudkowsky wrote:
> Michael M. Butler wrote:
>
>>
>> If we don't attack Iraq, then:
>>
>> * The credibility of the US on the global stage will be entirely
>> diminished;
>
>
> Worst. Reason. Ever.
>
I think I understand where you're coming from. And I agree,
given that position I imagine for you, that your Rejoinder.
Makes. Sense. Though. It. Stops. Conversation.
But as for calling that bulleted item a "Reason"--that's
your label, I think.
I'd call it a prediction--it was framed as if-then,
expressing _consequences_.
One could claim that that's just a rhetorical device, given
his concluding remarks. But claims are not proof.
If you want to criticize it as a prediction, I think your best
shot would be a belly laugh at the notion that the USA has any
credibility on the global stage...
Except that it *does* have at least a little. Some.
I'm not sure the analysis by my friend is 100% correct,
and it certainly isn't unassailable. "Entirely diminished"
isn't exactly the phrase I'd have used. But I think the
strongest logical (non-dialog-killing) response for someone
like whom I imagine you to be, would be something more like:
"So what? Who gives a fig for the USA (or Bush, or whomever)
losing face?"
At that point, we can discuss the matter further.
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