Thanks, TS.
Re: belief-based argument can and does point to any unknown or unfixed as a justification
That is true, hence my whole objection to the certainty. If I am certain I live in California, I will behave in a way that is consistent with that being true. However, if I insist that you also live in California when in fact you don't, this might cause you a host of problems. See, TS, now you have to pay California Income Tax and Federal Income Tax, and Sales Tax, and so on just because I say I am so certain.
I can see arguments that might say I'm certain that public programs are good. I would counter that I'm not certain: I am willing to entertain arguments to the contrary and weigh them rationally. When one of the Randians talks about complete capitalism or an ideal state being anarchy, I wonder what becomes of the poor, retarded, mentally ill and whatnot in such a society. Even if it could be practiced on some scale, I doubt the dispossessed without family or other long-term relationships in such a community would fair well. It could be pretty ugly, IMO. |
