The separation between value and fact, between “will” and “representation” is one of the most essential epistemological facts. Reality is what it is, and our assessment of it does not alter it. Statements of fact have truth value, not moral value. No descriptive belief can ever be “good” or “bad.” The black-white IQ gap is precisely the canonical example of this principle: its existence and its causes (whatever they may be) are objective facts, and no one can be morally judged for their sincere opinions about this part of reality. Or rather, of course one must morally judge and roundly condemn anyone who alters their descriptive beliefs about reality for political convenience. This is exactly what is called “motivated thought”.
This is exceptionally well-put.
The fact that this post was so heavily down-voted without any substantial counterarguments is a bad sign for the Forum. The post wasn’t even long or hard to read. Apparently many people here like to engage more in “mob voting”, the virtual equivalent to shouting down, than in making arguments about the things they disagree with.
Kaspar, thank you for the endorsement. The net negative is the result of a big amount of both positive and negative votes, so I think that a large number of people have found the post useful, and given the current political environment the negatives are also understandable.
This is exceptionally well-put.
The fact that this post was so heavily down-voted without any substantial counterarguments is a bad sign for the Forum. The post wasn’t even long or hard to read. Apparently many people here like to engage more in “mob voting”, the virtual equivalent to shouting down, than in making arguments about the things they disagree with.
Kaspar, thank you for the endorsement. The net negative is the result of a big amount of both positive and negative votes, so I think that a large number of people have found the post useful, and given the current political environment the negatives are also understandable.
Well, at least you got some recognition elsewhere.
Really nice! Thanks for the link.