Mike wrote... Remember that this thread was initiated by statements of concern regarding how "hard" or "sensitive" one should be in "interrogating" colleagues/students in public presentations, especially since some people (apparently, mostly students) thought that their professsors were being too tough or rude in their "grilling". (SNIP)
I stepped into this thread essentially to provide a couple of personal examples of where it was clear that the people involved clearly crossed lines of decorum, some social,others possibly scientific. I used Chomsky and one ofhis colleagues because I had direct experiences with them in situations where it was apparent to me (and probably others) that they really were being rude and "over the top" in making something that was supposed to approximate a scientific presentation. (SNIP) Again, back to the main point, it might be helpful for students to see clear examples of where one has "Professors Behaving Badly" as well as commentary and explication on why there's "bad behavior". Again, I recommend that people read Harris' book, Reber's 1987 "Synthese" article, and other sources to make up their minds about these issues regarding Chomsky & Co. Aubyn writes... But doesn't your approach run the risk of instigating the very kind of ad hominem exchanges that some students seem to be afraid of? I am willing to accept your description of Chomsky's behavior on its face (we all have bad days), but I also know of people who have made disparaging interpretations of what I believe was appropriate verbal behavior by Chomsky just because they did not like his politics (or his linguistics). This can be an entertaining and maybe even enlightening road to travel down, but can also be pretty destructive, or at least time wasting. Why not instead give examples of "Professors Behaving Well"? Show students written or video or live examples of vigorous, lively scholarly debate that does not deteriorate into personal attacks. Would not that be a more effective way to help students acculturate? **************************************************** Aubyn Fulton, Ph.D. Professor of Psychology Chair, Behavioral Science Department Pacific Union College Angwin, CA 94508 Office: 707-965-6536 Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] ***************************************************** --- You are currently subscribed to tips as: [email protected] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
