Fuzzy logic needs to come under close scrutiny

No more ‘scuttling away’ when light comes on

My good friend and mentor, Jim Keyworth, a great American, has offered up a wonderful idea for bringing together open minded thinkers seeking truth and realistic solutions for today’s complex issues. I assured him I would be interested, as would a number of others.

A Forum was suggested, one which would allow the proposal of any idea whose sponsor might provide responsible documentation or reasonable argument based on verifiable truth.

Any idea, assertion or claim, no matter how radical or how mundane, would be allowed a session for debate as long as the recognized rules for debate are honored. A highly revered judge, approved by both sides, would be invited to each session to assure that each side follows the rules.

There are many claims, charges, assertions, and warnings circulating throughout the public these days. It would seem that a place to resolve differences or to, at least, explore them in depth in a neutral forum would be in great demand – if “The Truth“ is, in fact, a desirable entity in today’s society.

We have independently come to the conclusion that The Hokey Pokey is, in fact, not what it’s all about. Each, in our own way, have examined that old chestnut and found it wanting. We agree that, to a degree, we see through a glass darkly, and we yearn for clarity. We feel we CAN handle the truth.

A forum is not a “Town Hall” meeting. It is structured by rules of argument which are strictly applied to either side. The shouting down of opponents is forbidden. Demagoguery is forbidden. “Fuzzy Logic” comes under close scrutiny and is required to make a case for itself.

As I am writing this, the thought occurs that something similar to a “Mock Trial” might also be considered. Issues or claims could be “tried” in court under the same rules as an actual case. These “trials” are held in high schools and colleges across America every year. Students fortunate enough to participate are given an argument or principle and must prosecute or defend it using the rules of law. It’s a great learning experience.

How about a “People’s Court” right here in Payson, where issues can be debated in the light of day, rather than whispered behind hands with pointy fingers? Let’s subject rumors and claims to the same test we are obliged to in a court of law - the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth.

Rather than scuttle away when the light is turned on, perhaps there are some courageous souls who would be willing to allow their claims and accusations to be submitted to careful examination. It wouldn’t be nearly as exciting, perhaps, unless breakthroughs in discovery appeal to some, but there is an old saying that “the truth shall set you free.”

Anyone willing to risk it?