Mail from the author of the article: ---------- Forwarded message ---------- Date: Wed, 08 Mar 2000 11:37:11 +0000 From: Tom Standage <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> To: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: The Borda count Thanks for your email about my article on the Borda count. I had a feeling it would result in apoplexy somewhere or another -- so thank you for pointing out the extent and nature of the debate. I find Dr Saari's questioning of Arrow's theorem quite convincing. But evidently there are problems with the Borda count, as many readers have pointed out. You objected to the phrase that the Borda count was the "only system that fits the bill". My intention was to convey that it is "the only system" in the limited sense of conforming to Dr Saari's requirements, ie not violating his precious symmetries. It is, in other words, the fairest according to his criteria. My apologies if this was not clear. If I decide to return to this subject (perhaps to look at the debate more closely) my first stop will be your discussion list. Thanks, Tom. Tom Standage Science & Technology Correspondent The Economist London
