When I was in school, a passing test score was 70%. That 70% meant a grade of “D.” If you are a contractor building weapons systems for the Department of Defense, a score of 45% merits a $2 billion performance bonus.
Author: George Rothert
Proof That Climate Change Is Real
Maybe you’re one of the disbelievers who argue that the whole climate change thing is a hoax. Global warming is just a conspiracy of scientists who want to scare us so they’ll continue to receive government grants for their purported research.
Well, see what happens to your smug disbelief when you can’t find your favorite Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream flavor in the grocer’s freezer. That’s right, your need for Chubby Hubby may be unfulfilled because of drought in nut-growing regions. Think you can get along without Cherry Garcia when no chocolate is available?
Life as you know it could be ending soon.
How To Win Every Argument
If you find yourself ill at ease in a discussion because your argument and its supporting facts are weak, the answer is to fake it. If you present your case forcefully and with conviction, your opponent may begin to question his/her facts. For example, use an anecdote. Relate a personal experience or make up a story about a relative of a friend who had an experience that backs up your argument. This can obscure the fact that statistics still do not support your position.
For a concise guide to ad hominem, strawmen, loaded question, begging the question, and many others, click here. There is even a downloadable poster. Who knows, with a little practice, you could become a successful politician.
Fifteen Years Ago
High School Was Never Like This!
Steven Van Zandt, aka Little Steven, aka Miami Steve, is probably best known as the character Silvio Dante in The Sopranos; or as long-time guitarist in the E Street Band; or host of Little Steven’s Underground Garage radio show; or Artists United Against Apartheid’s “Sun City Project.”
Van Zandt is also the founder of the Rock and Roll Forever Foundation and its “Rock and Roll High School.” The Foundations offers its curriculum to educators at no charge. If you want to get lost for a few minutes or hours or days, click here.