Like all of us, Michael, you -- er -- err in using the word 'error' without 
describing what you have in mind with the word. 

When Boris remarks, "What is an error for Cheerskep is not an error for me 
and v. verso," we all think we serviceably "get" what's on his mind, but in 
fact I hope I'd say "what I CALL an 'error'" rather than what "is" an error 
for me. Philosophically, this is not the mere quibble it may seem.   When a 
theist asserts that he is not simply CALLING a certain act a "sin", it IS a 
sin, he feels he's making a "real" distinction.

Now, Michael, you may try drafting a stipulative definition of 'error', but 
stipulation is not creation. Your effort would be no more than describing 
characteristics that would prompt you to CALL a belief or statement an error. 
 

Such an effort however, would be more creditable than using examples in the 
belief they prove your point when in fact they only beg the question. "Two 
plus two equals five is an error! If you can't see that, you can't see 
anything!"   It's effective rhetoric, but it just avoids the needed point. 
(This 
is not to say your posting isn't interesting; it interests me a great deal, 
but this quick posting is addressing only a narrow -- though philosophically 
essential -- part of it.) 

Reply via email to