Michael Everson wrote:
On 28 Nov 2008, at 18:26, phoebe ayers wrot
I would wager that even when most educated adults in the US think of the concept of "Ireland", they think of things like leprechauns and Guinness, not the political divisions (except perhaps in a headline- in-the-news way).
Blame US education?
It would also be consistent with Guinness's marketing strategy. In a radio programme here (fortuitously since this thread started) a Guinness representative was quoted as saying that when Ireland is mentioned they want you to think Guinness.
And just as a point of order, you (Michael) seem to be unwilling to consider any ideas other than the one you first presented, which isn't really much of a debate or compromise on the subject. Why even bring it up if you don't want input?
I'm endeavouring to summarize what the arguments have been. There are some proposals that are really non-starters. Others seem to be good but over on at the RM we have a core of resistence to change. Input could be usefully given there. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Talk:Ireland#Proposed_move_to_Ireland_.28island...
It's a lot to read, I know. A number of us believe that the proposed compromise is the only one that has a chance of lasting long-term. I invite you to read that talk article (it's in three parts now) and try to support the proposed compromise.
Ploughing through that stubble-field won't grow any potatoes.
This so-called attempt to compromise is more characteristic of a radical change from the status quo. ... Perhaps like those Irish classes that reacted to the opening of "The Plough and the Stars" at the Abbey Theatre.
Ec