[quote=Allan from Fallbrook]SK: Can we include wrong-headed in here as well? I have no issue with marginalizing stupid in order to support rational, but, all too often, simply questioning “settled science” (empirically speaking, there is NO such thing), whether its economics or AGW/Climate Change, is treated as heretical or blasphemous.
I read Krugman’s article on the need for additional stimulus. I don’t take any issue with the assertion, what I do take issue with is Krugman’s insistent and persistent abuse of anyone who disagrees with him and his continued use of strawman arguments to attempt to pro-actively submarine his opponents. Since when did asking questions become such a big deal? If we’re truly committed to a rational, well thought approach, I’d think that empiricism would hold pride of place.
I’ve also watched those whose fervent belief in AGW has caused them to lose all objectivity on the subject, frothing at the mouth over the temerity of those who are proffering the newest NASA and CERN findings on climate change for review and comment.
I strongly agree with you, SK, but I’d also offer the observation that that blade cuts both ways.[/quote]
I agree with you. It goes both ways. Krugman, who at one time I suppose, was a real economist. Now he’s an advocate. And has to be taken with a grain of salt.
Unlike him, I don’t “know” that there is some sort of stimulus that will work. I’m willing to listen to anything within reason. (returning to the gold standard is NOT among them.) But I take no exception to his style. Any more than I take exception to Ben Stein’s style. (I use him as an example because, like Krugman, he’s been brilliant at times. And at other times, he’s simply a clown. And also because I recently saw him tell Bill O’Reilly that he didn’t know WTF he was talking about. And that makes me happy.)
Strawmen, ad hominem attacks and outright lies don’t get us anywhere. No matter where they come from. But apparently they make good ratings. McLuhan was unfortunately right. Even before the internets.
