personal contests

["Colette H. Adams" <cadams@hh.gpz.org>]

        I would like to say that I have no problem with anyone arguing any issue
as fiercely as they like.  Albert Einstein to his death expressed his
distaste for quantum mechanics.  His debates with Niels Bohr on the subject
were many and lively.
        What I have a problem with is either making OR RESPONDING to personal
attacks.  When Niels Bohr pointed out to Einstein that his own theory of
relativity contradicted one of his attacks on quantum theory, Bohr didn't
go "See, you're stupid, you're stupid!"
        When personal attacks are made, IGNORE THEM.  Do not engage in a 
personal
contest.  I am not interested in watching your ego inflate.  Those who feel
the need to make such attacks have already demonstrated their own
insecurity and immaturity.  I joined this mailing list to learn, and I do
not appreciate having my limited hard drive space filled with pissing
contests.
        As to the issue of what we should focus on, dismiss, etc.:  Science has
never been about "proof", contrary to popular myth.  That is the realm of
logic and mathematics.  Science is about WORKING HYPOTHESES.  The "working"
part means just that, it's working at the moment, which is to say it
comports with the data we have.  New data and new ways of looking at them
may change this.  Multiple working hypotheses are always possible.  In many
cases the scientific community will reach a consensus at any given time and
focus on one.  This does not mean that we should "dismiss" the others.
        The key to good science is a combination of open-mindedness and
skepticism.  This means being willing to consider any idea, regardless of
the source, and being skeptical of any idea, INCLUDING YOUR OWN.  It means
welcoming attacks on your pet theories, not because they give you the
opportunity to puff yourself up, but for the data and insights that you may
not have considered.  Provided these attacks are not personal, they are of
great value.

Best regards,

Dave