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What kind of “evidence” would you ever accept? If they show you server logs with NK IPs, you would point out that those are just text files, and can easily be f
by matt4077 9y ago
What kind of “evidence” would you ever accept? If they show you server logs with NK IPs, you would point out that those are just text files, and can easily be faked. In fact, there is no evidence whatsoever that an online publication could provide if you refuse to accept peoples’ testimony.
This idea of distrusting institutions like the media is probably meant to make you appear smart and in-the-know. But it’s really just nihilism that leads to the breakdown of civil discourse.
The WSJ is generally regarded as an ethical and professional source of reporting, some upheaval in the last months nonewithstanding. And that’s how the system works: you can never verify all the facts of a single article. But you can judge a publisher on their track record. And, by all means, call bullshit on anything the National Inquirer writes. But if it’s a reputable source of news, and generally gels with a lot of other reporting by other sources from all along the ideological spectrum, don’t throw a temper tantrum and expect people to believe you over them.
- guilhas 9y agoSo this very dangerous hackers that haven't yet found VPNs, Tor, etc... ?
- jessaustin 9y agoThe National Enquirer hasn't tricked us into multiple wars by dutifully parroting false pretexts. (E.g., every USA war in my parents' lifetimes.) You know that wars are bad, right? Lots of people die and lots of resources are wasted.
- liberte82 9y agoDon't they teach in logic classes that appeals to authority are an invalid form of logic? If we don't trust authorities, in the world of the internet where anything goes, where does that leave us?
- wsy 9y agoIf we don't trust anybody, it leaves us nowhere. We will not be able to judge any statement made by anyone, except when we were eye witness ourselves. That would be a very sad state. Logic is a valuable academic exercise, but also leaves you nowhere if the situation to assess becomes slightly complex.
- matt4077 9y agoMaybe logic classes are sometimes wrong?at the very least, invoking them is itself an appeal to authority. You cannot start evaluating each and every statement from first principle. Example: if your spouse asks you to give them your car keys, you are more likely to comply than when a stranger makes the same request. That’s because you trust them, and because they have a lot to lose by betraying that trust. It’s no different with media outlets, the EFF, your doctor, and many other institutions. It’s insane to pretend that you’re never trusting some authority: every time you log into your email provider or bank, you’re trusting them with information and money, based on your knowledge of their past behavior, and your understanding of their respective incentive structures.