Comment by Matt3 on Rationality Quotes 5 · 2008-01-24T10:32:02.000Z · LW · GW

@Caledonian, @michael vassar

These aren't unattributed declarations, they're quotes. As such, I think that the author's beliefs and character are fair game. Mein Kampf undoubtedly contains some true statements, that doesn't mean one would want to quote Hitler on a blog dedicated to rationality. Additionally, if the quote is so pedestrian (as I believe Adams's is) that "a blind squirrel" could find it, I think that might justify a search for a more worthy mouthpiece.

Yes, this is something of an aesthetic argument, but I think it's still valid.

Comment by Matt3 on Rationality Quotes 5 · 2008-01-23T21:46:17.000Z · LW · GW

I'd be concerned about that Scott Adams quote. If I remember correctly, he does not believe in evolution and I wouldn't be surprised if that was what he used for justification of his non-belief.