Galt's Gulch

If only all scientists could be this pragmatic

Posted by $ blarman 9 years, 7 months ago to Science
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I appreciate the way this gentleman approaches the matter: he simply says that the system is so complex and there are so many things we don't know/understand that we shouldn't presume any specific findings.

We would all do well to take this approach until we have evidence to substantiate our points.
SOURCE URL: http://humanevents.com/2014/09/17/talking-climate-science-with-physicist-glenn-marsch/

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  • Posted by $ MikeMarotta 9 years, 7 months ago
    What do you mean by "pragmatic"? In common vernacular it means "practical" but that also commonly includes divorce from "mere theory." That is also within the formal meaning, though, of course, pragmatism is also a theoretical framework. (That contradiction is their own problem.) So, "pragmatists" advocate and instantiate attempts at short-term solutions to social problems without regard for the long-range consequences - and without concern for individual rights. A "pragmatic" scientist tells Congress exactly what they want to hear; but that is not what you intended, was it?
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    • Posted by $ blarman 9 years, 7 months ago
      No. I speak Greek, and "pragma" literally means "thing". A "pragmatist" is one who studies or explains things _as they are_.

      Yes, sadly, there are those who have corrupted nearly every good word in the dictionary to mean something different than its original meaning. A pragmatist does take on the warped meaning you allude to of being willing to compromise, but that definitely was not my original intent or use.

      Thanks.
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