> Also, why the rudeness? In terms of the disagreement hierarchy (http://www.paulgraham.com/disagree.html http://www.paulgraham.com/disagree.html), you're using

> Also, why the rudeness? In terms of the disagreement hierarchy (http://www.paulgraham.com/disagree.html http://www.paulgraham.com/disagree.html), you're using DH1 through DH3 - attacking credentials and tone rather than facts. I think you've got things turned around a bit here. He's not using claims of authority to spuriously attack an argument that you're making. You are the one asserting authority, and he's asking for proof. Since you are basing some of your credibility on authority, it seems like a reasonable request.