Re: The Value of Tautology

Michael S. Lorrey (mike@lorrey.com)
Tue, 18 May 1999 05:14:28 -0400

david_musick@juno.com wrote:

> mark@unicorn.com wrote:
>
> "That statement is so totally tautological that it's worthless; by
> definition, people desire their desires."
>
> A tautology is essentially a way of pointing out the obvious. I don't
> see why this is "worthless". What is obvious to some is not obvious to
> others. In fact, I am constantly amazed at people's general lack of
> awareness of obvious facts. I have also noticed that people often
> respond in anger when the obvious is pointed out to them. I wonder if
> this response explains the general lack of awareness of the obvious.

from tautologies to oxymorons.... slippery thinking...

Mike Lorrey