Robert Owen wrote:
> Unless a "definition" is a postulate of a conceptual system,
> it must be rigorously derived (i.e. follow of strict logical
> necessity) from one or more axioms of a coherent axiomatic
> system such as a "philosophy" in order to be "canonical". I
> am aware no such system.
>
> Otherwise, we will continue to observe a dreary procession of
> "argumentum ad populum's" and "argumentum ad verecundiam's".
Upon rereading this post, I didn't like my tone -- much too doctrinaire -- although of course I am right.
Thought this from the Zen Basho would express my aversion to "argumentum ad verecundiam" (proof by appeal to authority) in a gentler manner:
Do not seek to follow in the footsteps
of the wise. Seek what they sought.
Excuse my discourtesy,
Bob