Re: [Phys-L] authority, facts, and/or etiquette

["Anthony Lapinski" <Anthony_Lapinski@pds.org>]

This has been an interesting discussion, sort of, and probably the
reason why some teachers leave this listserv as people discuss
back and forth (in a self-righteous way) about topics that
might start out important but usually go off on tangents with a
few people "arguing." This happens often. While it is true that
some of us are "smarter" than others, we are all here to learn
from each other and become better teachers.

I saw this on the Phys-L web site:

Phys-L is a mailing list dedicated to physics and the teaching of physics
with about 700 members from over 35 countries, the majority of whom
are physics educators. Noninflammatory, professional, and courteous
postings intended to inform members on how to better understand,
teach, and learn physics are always welcome.

Maybe we can all learn from this...



Phys-L@Phys-L.org writes:
> On 12/13/2013 08:44 AM, Craig Wiegert wrote:
>
> > I said nothing about Newton's First Law.  I was addressing your disdain
> > for branding Newton's Third Law as a "Reciprocity Principle".  Do pay
> > attention.
>
> However, what *I* said about the first law remains true.
>
> There has been a string of naked appeals to the authority
> of the "historical" laws of motion ... none of it coming
> from me.  See also
>  http://www.av8n.com/physics/authority.htm
> It is therefore quite comical and 180° backwards when 
> Mr. Weigert alleges that my
>
> > goal is to ensure Newton gets credit for his Holy Laws
>
> Unless the archives are lying to me, I haven't even been
> referring to the third law as "Newton's" law ... just
> simply "the" third law.
>
> I'll make you a deal:  You don't impugn my motives with
> impertinent and completely counterfactual allegations, and 
> I won't impugn yours.
>
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