Sometimes the content is so lacking in substance that there is nothing to
say about it. Other times, the form is the content and the lack in form
indicates the weakness of the content.

For example, the point that initial media reports are often erroneous does
not support the statement that the media is "very liberal." My point, if you
claim to be among the 1% of the best educated then the form and content of
the argument should reflect that fact.
NB

-----Original Message-----
From: Museum discussion list [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf
Of Eugene Dillenburg
Sent: Saturday, May 10, 2003 11:49 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Iraqis, looting and the press

Criticizing the form of an argument is often taken as a sign that one has
nothing substantive to say about its content.

Deb's point, as usual, is spot on: initial media reports are frequently
erroneous.  The urge to communicate something - anything - means unverified
reports are repeated until they achieve a patina of credibility.  The lack
of information is filled by speculation, rumor, and - yes - bias.  And we
fall for it time and again, jumping to conclusions and often assuming the
worst.

This is good to bear in mind.  Next week the annual AAM convention will
meet in Portland, and no doubt the hallways will be teeming with stories
of  budget cuts and layoffs.  Truth will mix with half-truth and un-truth,
opinion, cynicism, and second-, third- and eighth-hand reports.  Make no
mistake, many museums are facing tough times, including those in my state.
But when you hear that the sky is falling, remember those 170,000 "looted"
artifacts, and keep a grain of salt always at hand.

As for all the political discussion, the 20-20 hindsight of a group of
armchair generals is just all so very.  But over on ASTC-L, they are
actually discussing museum issues.  Definitely worth stopping by.

Eugene Dillenburg
Exhibit Developer
Science Museum of Minnesota

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