Scriptae Scriptor

(The writings of the writer)

Opinions by James J. Burnett

"Opinions are to the vast apparatus of social existence what oil is to machines; one does not go up to a turbine and pour machine oil over it; one applies a little to hidden spindles and joints that one has to know."

 

Walter Benjamin (1892 - 1940)  

"The peculiar evil of silencing the expression of an opinion is, that it is robbing the human race; posterity as well as the existing generation; those who dissent from the opinion, still more than those who hold it. If the opinion is right, they are deprived of the opportunity of exchanging error for truth; if wrong, they lose, what is almost as great a benefit, the clearer perception and livelier impression of truth, product by its collision with error."

 

John Stuart Mill (1806 - 1873)  

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This is the place where I voice my opinions on various topics. I also invite you to reply via e-mail. I try to answer all e-mails, and I welcome debate.

If you think my opinions are sometimes categorical, sometimes brash, often controversial or openly provocative--you're right. They are intentionally so. There's too much plainness in the world, too many people who are afraid to speak their unvarnished thoughts. I offer your my opinions frankly, in the hope that they will stir thoughts, reflections, and responses. Some may agree, others will doubtlessly take me to task for expressing my thoughts, but all the responses are most welcome.

So, with that said, onward . . . .