I have removed that post that was here. It was motivated by my annoyance at speculation as to what might or might not have happened in my life by people completely ignorant on the subject. It became clear that really it was not possible to have a sensible discussion unless I can be candid. So, though I don't like to do that, I have removed the post.

I may revisit the issue of the problem of people who view oppression primarily in theoretical terms at some later date when I can -- to steal an image from Samual Johnson -- kick the stone as refutation. From the Life of Boswell:

After we came out of the church, we stood talking for some time together of Bishop Berkeley's ingenious sophistry to prove the nonexistence of matter, and that every thing in the universe is merely ideal. I observed, that though we are satisfied his doctrine is not true, it is impossible to refute it. I never shall forget the alacrity with which Johnson answered, striking his foot with mighty force against a large stone, till he rebounded from it -- "I refute it thus."

The kicking of stones will have to wait.

September 17, 2009