[MD] What is SOM?

[ARLO J BENSINGER JR]

Ham,

Again, its all well and good that you bypass the issue by saying "it doesn't
concern me" (although how a theory that emphasizes man's unique consciousness
cannot account for its existence in any way other than simply saying "it exists
now" is beyond me), but you take it the extra step by actively dismissing
theories of the evolution of consciousness that don't agree with your
particular worldview. You dismiss socialization theories as wrong, as you did
with Joe, but offer nothing in alternative. If you truly have nothing to say on
the matter, and are indeed unconcerned with an evolutionary account of
consciousness, then why so adamantly denounce social theories? And if you do
denounce then, Ham, then have something to offer as an alternative.

It is not enough to just say "socialization theories are wrong, but aside from
that I have no explanation and no concern for the evolution of consciousness".
Well, it seems to be enough for you, but that seems to me to be more of a
"can't accept social but realize anything else I propose would be ridiculous"
posturing. So I say, until you can offer something better, or some alternative,
you really can't denounce socialization theories of consciousness. 

And this, Ham, is one of the reasons why I dismiss your thesis.

Arlo