In "For years I have tried to impress, when teaching systems analysis, that the the space where nothing exists should speak to one as strongly as where nothing exists." the second "nothing" should be "something."

For some reason (gremlins at work) this error appeared after rigorous proofing and, more critically, after the submit button had been pushed.

Sigh.

Reply to James Drogan

For years I have tried to impress, when teaching systems analysis, that the the space where nothing exists should speak to one as strongly as where nothing exists.

The question; why is nothing there?

The same should apply to speech.  What has not been said should evoke the the question; why?

It is hard to overcome the inhibitions that have been established in students.  Time after time in discussion with my students I ask, "What's missing?"  Little is said.  Why?  Perhaps lack of knowledge or curiosity about the subject; perhaps lack of courage; perhaps unwillingness to stand out; perhaps a lack of confidence in one's ability to ask questions.

An old friend of mine, now gone, Bob Neuschel, taught me the phrase "inspirational dissatisfaction."  That is perhaps we we need in instantiate in our students.

Maybe, Ryan, in the debate is the basis for doing that.  Or, if the students are not so politically inclined, pick something from the popular culture as the basis for and analysis of what's missing, why that should be the case, and what conclusions may we draw from the omission.

Anyway, your post reminds me that I need to do more in this area.  Thanks.

Reply to James Drogan