[Objectivist]

Quote by: Morality Games As a commonly used metaphor in the philosophy of mind (talking about the Correspondence Theory of Truth), 'image' typically refers to any kind of impression (vague idea) or picture (specific idea). Concepts are ideas, or pictures that describe in concrete terms features of reality. The reasoning behind this terminology is that things in the mind reflect objectives to some degree, so they deserve to be called 'images', that is, impressions or pictures. It is from that context I am speaking.

Okay. I understand what you are saying, but I still sort of disagree with the use of 'images'.

The more simplistic you make your way of speaking, the higher probability the audience will miscomprehend the intended meaning of your words. Depending on their complexity, ideas require a certain degree of sophistication in the means of conveyance. Additionally, the hope is that people will respond to the density of my posts by trying to overcome them -- that is, refining their intellects to the point comprehensive language is no obstacle. If they aren't willing to do that, then they aren't worth my time.

The reverse is also true. The more complex you make your way of speaking, the higher probability the audience will not comprehend the meaning of your words whatsoever. I agree that complex ideas require a more complex way of expressing them, however, if clarity and understanding is your goal then you have to write in a way that is easily comprehended while clearly expressing your intended meaning.

So you think exactly what Ayn Rand thinks point for point, and probably on basis of just as much study (almost none).

I actually don't agree with Rand "point for point". I disagree with her views on sex and sexual orientation mainly with a few other minor disagreements.

Furthermore, I acknowledge the fact that I have limited knowledge, I do not know everything. I also believe that claiming that another person's arguments are invalid on the basis of speculation is wrong, unnecessary, and utterly rude.

Academics in general don't try to hide anything from anybody. They employ whatever language they feel best represents their ideas, and as people who have invested the most time and effort into comprehending concepts, they are usually the most qualified for deciding what kind of language is best for conveyance.

Everyone has their right to talk and to express their ideas in whatever manner they want to. However, if one actually wants to engage in an intellectual debate with another person with the aims of changing their perspective or correcting one of their principles, then one must be willing to communicate ideas, no matter how complex, in a manner that enables other people to comprehend what you are saying.

Keeping in mind that you are on a casual, non-academic forum... one should keep their audience in mind and to be courteous to them.