Bernardino

In philosophy and science, ad hoc often means the addition of corollary hypotheses or adjustment to a philosophical or scientific theory to save the theory from being falsified by compensating for anomalies not anticipated by the theory in its unmodified form. Philosophers and scientists are often suspicious or skeptical of theories that rely on continual, inelegant adjustments, and ad hoc hypotheses are often a characteristic of pseudoscientific subjects. See Skeptic’s Dictionary: Ad hoc hypothesis. Much of scientific understanding relies on the modification of existing hypotheses or theories, but these are distinguished from ad hoc hypotheses in that the anomalies being explained propose a new means of being falsified.

Theories that have been empirically tested and rather than being confirmed they seem either to have been falsified or to require numerous ad hoc hypotheses to sustain them include applied kinesiology, astrology, biorhythms, creationism, facilitated communication, plant perception, and ESP.[1] Despite evidence contrary to the theories, adherents do not give them up. For example, ESP researchers have been known to blame the hostile thoughts of onlookers for unconsciously influencing pointer readings on sensitive instruments.

An interesting example of an ad hoc hypothesis is Albert Einstein’s addition of the cosmological constant to relativity in order to allow a steady-state universe. Although he later referred to it as his “greatest blunder,” it has been found to correspond quite well to the theories of dark energy.

Thanks for this, Anthony. I don’t particularly want anyone who is so
invested in the system as it stands to join in with my proposal; I
wdn’t expect them to be interested. I wdn’t turn them away, of course.
There doesn’t appear to be the potential for solidarity of the type you
cite…via analogy. Today. Today there are a number of elements which
make such analogies false. Easy to delineate, if you like…though it’s
certainly sad to plow through. You know I support impeachment
efforts; I trust you also know how little faith I have in that bringing about
much of a difference…along the lines that I sense you want. For
example, when you talk about “rule of law” being threatened…please
note that it’s already been dispensed with…and doesn’t seem to have
much fresh air to breathe down the road…even if Bush is rep;laced by a
Dem…even if Bush is impeached. We must acknowledge that in order
for that “coalition” you desire to have a shot at coming up with a
plan that’ll make a dent. My plan moves in that direction. You don’t
agree? Best, Marcelle

NOTE: Anthony had pointed out that various groups –normally at each others’ throats– banded together at one juncture to battle Hitler. He kind of made a “ditto” comment regarding Vietnam protest time.

Cindy is going to win– and it will be because she has the support of smart, imaginative, and committed activists who understand the stakes and opportunities involved. You should see a roster of her devoted friends!

The biggest opportunity is the chance to revitalize the anti-war and impeachment movements– and perhaps give the antiquated two-party system a run for its money.

Marcelle Cendrars
are you the local Brown nose for Cindy?
it sure looks like it from here. does Cindy suround herself with this level of
insecure attention seeking whiners (wait that discribes cindy to a “T” so yes I do think she would) this explaind the Looney rambelings comming out of fort Casey.
Cindy’s insane idea of running for congress is more of a joke that a reality. she is doomed to fail, and with her failure will go any hope of the progressing movement to put a real leader in congress.
Marcelle, this is a wake up call to get a life

Did you try bcendra@yahoo.com? Please try again. Best, Marcelle P.S. Sometimes –incorrectly– people add the “rs” (in Cendrars) at the end of the bcendra.

Very well said.

Poetry? !?

say goodbye now
here’s the door
and clear your head
and talk no more

they are coming for you
they come with restraints
your medication awaits

it will not be
what you expected
nor what was promised
that you have elected

destiny never ends
the voices in your head linger
no matter much you try

a drop of jello
on the floor
to turn your face
to happiness

we Doped too hard
to stop time’s hand
from touching us all
in a kind of creepy way.

you turned your back
from your cause
you did it mostly for the applause

to name Casey as the reason
is a lie in print for all to see
I have found you smug in purpose
when I interviewed you and find you that way still

we will miss you knot as you fade away
your heart was not pure – as they say

One thing people can do to keep up to date and field ideas is to join Cindy’s Google Group, Cindy4Congress (http://groups.google.com/group/cindy4congress).

It is getting off the ground and could use input from some of the talented and intelligent people that read Dissident Voice.

If privacy is important– I suggest writing a letter to Cindy at her Campaign address. (Cindy is still establishing a permanent home in San Francisco.)

I can tell you Cendra, that Cindy is very very busy setting up her headquarters (the official opening is scheduled for December 8th). I am simply amazed that she is thinking ahead on a multiple of fronts.

Summits often turn out to be futile affairs– as are the paradigms that haven’t been working. But let’s see what happens– and do what we can to help Cindy succeed.

BTW, her headquarters address is:

Cindy Sheehan
1260 Mission Street
San Francisco, Ca 94103

Underlining or highlighting Cindy’s name will help because she is getting thousands of letters right now asking Nancy Pelosi to impeach Cheney.