Monday, August 9, 2010

Who cares about science, logic or opinion!




How is it that we're happy to roll with science and stats when it agrees with us. But when it doesn't we dismiss it outright?

We still don't seem to be able to get past arguing about whether something WAS a good idea or not, even when waves of scientists and experts of different varieties chuck their hat in to the ring, no-one seems to care.

Interesting news article: Stiglitz sticks it to Abbott on stimulus 


Former World Bank chief economist Joseph Stiglitz has praised federal Labor's management of the nation's economy and its $42 billion stimulus package designed to stave off the worst of the global financial crisis.

But he's less stimulated by the coalition's economic ideas, saying the federal opposition had actually praised the architects of the global financial crisis.

At what point do you say to yourself. "Well, I've held this line long enough, the evidence is mounting that I'm wrong". 






It's a great quality in a human. I always hear people comment of others: "I like Hank, he's a good guy that can admit when he's wrong!"


Somehow this quality isn't required (nor is it rewarded) in politicians. What's 'in' is a dogged and unrelenting attack on reason and common sense - no matter WHAT the evidence. EVEN when scientific, public or expert opinion is against you! 


Somehow in politicians we reward these characteristics, but at a party, you'd call the guy a wanker and go talk to someone else!


This is the same [lack of] logic that applies to the Internet filter. Expert evidence is that it won't work. Common sense says it won't work, but for some reason the politicians will just stick to their hard line on the issue!


I want to see greater use of common sense, and reliance on science and real statistics in our country's decision making.. I mean WTF? Our country's most complex issues are being analysed and debated by the political 'school yard' with less logic than most 10 year olds can muster!
"THIS is good Idea"
"No it isn't"
"Yes It is.."
"No it isn't"
"Yes it is..."



It reminds me of that great iPhone vs HTC video that's making it's way around:


you just can't argue with some people.

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