[WikiEN-l] Using a dictionary considered helpful
dpbsmith at verizon.net
dpbsmith at verizon.net
Fri Jan 16 13:19:07 UTC 2004
I don't regard a dictionary as holy writ, and I don't have any illusions that
using one will settle these disputes, but I really do wish, when conducting
arguments--particularly in writing via email--that contenders would resort
more to the dictionary, at least as a starting point, for defining terms.
For example:
Terrorism: "The unlawful use or threatened use of force or violence by a
person or an organized group against people or property with the intention of
intimidating or coercing societies or governments, often for ideological or
political reasons."
Terrorist: "One that engages in acts or an act of terrorism."
Not an answer, not unambiguous, not unchallengable, but a starting point.
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