[MD] Is Morality innate in the cosmos?

[Platt Holden]

Hey Ham -

P: 
> > Are you saying that "knowledge derived from other
> > sources" that can't be proven objectively using the
> > scientific method may still be valid?

H: 
> Well, if such knowledge couldn't be true, we've been wasting a heck of a lot
> of time discussing it.

I agree. Objective proof is useful but not the only avenue to truth.
Likewise with definitions. One need not always define a term to know 
what it means.  

> > I suggest that some cliches like "beauty is in the eye
> > of the beholder" raise deep philosophical problems.
> > As for "adding to our conception of reality," the
> > premise is that reality is somehow different than our
> > conception of it -- raising other deep philosophical problems.
 
> A cliche may serve as a "reminder" of an unresolved question, triggering the
> intellect into action.  But if such questions are to be resolved, the cliche
> must be restructured as a concept to be considered.  And if the concept is
> to be communicated to others, a cliche, aphorism or platitude won't do; it
> must be phrased as a logical proposition.

I think cliches serve the purpose of communicating a concept in the simplist and
quickest manner. As a premise "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder" can set off a
logical argument as well as any other premise. Don't ask me where, but I've read
scholarly papers on just that subject. 
 
> [Ham, previously]:
> > Like the realization Archimedes expressed as he ran stark naked through
> the
> > streets of ancient Syracuse crying, "Ureka!  I have found it!"
 
> [Platt]:
> > An apt description of how I felt after reading "Lila."
 
> I'm trying to picture Platt Holden running naked across the beaches of
> Hilton Head shouting "Ureka!"

That would be an ugly sight in the eyes of any beholder. :-)

> Have you reviewed my Freedom essay yet?  I'll be looking for your full
> report by Monday.
 
Let me know where I can find it and I'll be happy to report back. If it's anything
like your essay on discrimination, I'll be cheering for it.

Platt


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