On being offensive and on why ID is not science.

Just two notes that have been on my mind. There is no right to not be offended in public life. In fact, being offensive is often the only tool a minority has to promote a point of view. The fact that everyone is sometimes in the minority should encourage the value of offensive discourse and is the reason that the first amendment was written. Despite the fact that there is more and more evidence to suggest that humans are not rational (ie they do not change their minds when confronted with information that opposes their previously-held beliefs) I still have to operate as if we are rational. And in a rational society, an open marketplace of ideas is essential.

Another note on a pet peeve of mine is the presentation of intelligent design as an alternative to evolution by natural selection. It is not a scientific explanation because ID is not falsifiable. No intriguing observation can ever be made that would falsify ID. "Why is this eye made this way and not another way?" Can always be answered with "That was the way it was designed." Evolution by natural selection, on the other hand, can be falsified in almost an infinite number of ways. There are some many potential discoveries that could completely overturn 150 years of discovery and data. The fact the none have been found does not prove that evolution by natural selection is 100% certain, but every discovery in support of it is another reason to suggest that it explains life better than any alternative explanation.

Beer checklist

As I try these out, I'll post my preferences. From the NYtimes's recent article.

Jolly Pumpkin Oro de Calabaza

Contreras Valeir Divers

AleSmith Horny Devil

Leelanau Good Harbor Golden Ale

Unibroue Maudite

Het Anker Lucifer

Contreras Valeir Extra

’T Gaverhopke Singing Blond

Brooklyn Local 1

De Ranke XX Bitter