"A is A" =
i) Shorthand for the Law of Identity
ii) Buzzphrase, the mere invocation of which is believed to validate any argument, or invalidate any opposing argument.
Example usage:
"Those who oppose the war in Iraq inherently deny that 'A is A'"
and
"Those who support the war in Iraq inherently deny that 'A is A'"
Oh, sure! This is the favorite incantation of the randroids. Those parrots seem to think that adding this formula to their argument will make it more potent. Using "abradacabra" or "hail Mary" is at least as effective however.
ReplyDeleteAnd of course, no sane person disputes that "A is A."
ReplyDeleteThe real questions are "What is the nature of A?" and "Do we know everything about A?"
When deployed in an argument, the tautology "A is A" assumes not only that A is completely knowable, but is in fact completely known.
In an insanse era and half sober person willing to stand up for rationality would seems like a genius.
ReplyDeleteIn an insane era any half sober person willing to stand up for rationality would seems like a genius.
ReplyDelete