response 278 of 293:

Dec 21 18:02 UTC 2003

Re #275: I had the same problem with that episode. Such a metaphoric
language seemed extremely limited in ability to communicate. There are endless
situations for which a metaphor would not be available, for example, to
discuss metaphors. Would mathematics be possible? 

The news media are reporting polls showing a majority of those polled oppose
gay marriage and favor a Constitutional amendment to ban it. However the
"majority" is something like 55%, which is not enough (if translated into
congressional action and state voting) to adopt such an amendment.

It also strikes me that the purpose of the Constitution is to rein in the
passions of the majority, unless they are well seasoned over a
considerable period of time. The urge of a majority to amend the
constitution to resolve every controversy is antithetical to the nature of
a Constitution.