W dniu 2012-03-09 18:57, ufnkex pisze:
> I've noticed them, of course. But "sound" hardly can mean "at least
> the knowledge of a post-doctorate researcher" or "acces for
> specialists only", since such an expert is no longer a mere
> "amateur"/dilettante.
Of course it doesn't mean any such thing. Most of the members of the
list have always been amateurs, and many of them have contributed very
interesting, insightful ideas. By "sound scholarship" I simply mean the
kind that demonstrably advances our understanding of the world thanks to
its critical and constructive methodology and the testability of its
claims.
> OTOH, methinks a person with non-conformist ideas and/or a person
> with poor knowledge can also have a "serious interest" in what's on
> topic here.
Absolutely. "Poor knowledge" is a curable condition provided that the
patient understands his/her limitations. Nonconformist ideas are
precisely what the best papers and monographs written by true
professionals are about. Jens Rasmussen, who unfortunately no longer
posts ob Cybalist, is an eminent IEist, a prolific author, and the very
epitome of nonconformity. Jay H. Jasanoff's seminal book on Hittite and
IE verbs is 100% nonconformist, turning established models upside down.
The laryngeal theory remained a fringe idea for decades before it was
vindicated after the dicovery of Anatolian. But to be productive,
nonconformity should be accompanied by self-criticism, strict
methodology, respect for the evidence and familiarity with previous
scholarship. Otherwise you can at best reinvent the wheel, but more
usually lose touch with reality.
> I for one have subscribed to this list exactly because I can learn
> whole lotta things, interesting & new to me. I know it is an open
> list, so that posts can also be read by those who are no subscribers
> to it. But as a non-subscriber one can't post questions or request
> advice.
Needless to say, you are most welcome.
Piotr