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June 06, 2005
Josiah might be right, but I still say something’s wrong; or, “How to avoid winning friends and influencing people.”
I recently wrote about Craig Becker and Jim Brexler. Both men wrote essays which explained, ostensibly, why they believed Gov. Bredesen’s TennCare solution was not only viable, but should also be supported. The only problem is they didn’t write what they wrote. That is, they didn’t even take the time to explain in their own words the ideas expressed in what may have been a “form” letter which was sent to them. This is easily seen by comparing their almost word-for-word opening and closing sentences. An acquaintance, Mr. Roe, explained that, in such cases, this was “standard practice.” It very well may be, but I still find it deceitful.
The letters were written with the express purpose of convincing the masses. Whether the masses should be convinced remains to be seen. But when Mr. Becker and Mr. Brexler use identical words to expound the same idea and then claim as their own the identical expression of that idea, they lose credibility in my eyes for what might be, in reality, a good plan.
Just like no one truly believes they can have perfect abs because some moviestar endorses an overpriced piece of plastic; in the same way, I don’t believe Mr. Becker or Mr. Brexler know what they’re talking about. In my opinion, all they did was endorse a product. If they’re so convinced Gov. Bredesen’s plan would work, they should have said so in their own words.
As I am not endeavoring to be an ass—it just comes naturally—please don’t send me hate mail. I truly do not understand why such letter writing it is acceptable. If someone cares to explain it to me, I will try to understand.
Carl
Posted by plumberman029 at June 6, 2005 04:14 PM
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