h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Matt here - you posted comments about my entry on Why. Your article is rather good. Interestingly enough, though, haven't you noticed that of all those who should be prepared to change their views, most philosophers are incredibly dogmatic and will do anything to disprove a challenge to their work!

Someone once wrote:

"Philosophy consists largely of argueing that all other philosphers are wrong."

This shouldn't be the case, but a lot of philosophers make it so.

Matt

Hi Matt,

Thanks for your comments. I'm afraid to say that my favourite sentence of this entry was sub-edited out.
"Another way to learn how not to be a philosopher is to listen to a radio phone-in show".

I think professional philosophers do change their views, but they change them on their own terms - ie slowly and when no-one's looking! And preferably in response to their own arguments. I've seen a number of very gracious acknowledgements in journal articles about others correcting errors, but perhaps these are written for political reasons!

Could I tempt you into writing something about the philosophy of science, as both a philosopher and a scientist? The topic came up at some point in a discussion a month or so ago, and there was a lot of interest because there's lots of scientists around. I'm a bit pushed for time atm, and I've got a few other projects, but if you're looking for something else to write about, I think you could do a lot worse!

Best wishes

Otto

I will put something together in a few weeks, if you like. I have loads on at the moment (exam time!).Philosophy of science is an interesting area to cover.

I think that an article could (or should) be written on Karl Marx. His writings have been responsible for so much change. You are a good candidate for this one!

Regards,

Matt