List of books that are acceptable as evidence

[Schneibster]

Never mind.

[mooeypoo]

Never mind.

!

Moderator Note

 

But we do mind, Schneibster. So do our rules.

 

Please try to really make sure you're quoting actual people for their actual quotes. This isn't the first time a thread is forced to concentrate on off-topic conversation that seems to end with whatever was suspected to be said not actually being said.

 

In general, it would be best if instead of concentrating on nitpicks of what someone supposedly said we concentrate on the broader discussion so we can all benefit from learning from one another rather than arguing about who understood what and where. It makes for much better discussions.

 

 

Do not answer this moderation note.

 

[studiot]

It is a pity that this thread has gone off track since I think Schneibster started off with the germ of a good point about book references.

 

Some threads are about the cutting edge of science and one would not expect material to have made it to the textbooks.

Also the old practice of 'pamphlet writing' (some were as big as a large book) has dwindled.

So the only sources left are current papers, online or offline.

Sf has a dedicated forum for this types of material.

 

However we also have forums dedicated to lower level or older subjects in science and I see references to textbooks and even selected popsciworks are wholly appropriate.

Indeed there are periodic requests for lists of such material.

 

So surely it is a matter of (good) judgement as to what is appropriate in any given situation, as is so much in this life.

 

So perhaps a less dogmatic title, coupled with a subtle change of emphasis would permit something good to come out of this thread?

Edited February 26, 2014 by studiot