[Rhodes22-list] Reply to Bob and his squirrels

[Robert Skinner]

Robert's original post:
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Tootle wrote:
> That is a media gimick.

Robert replies:

False.

It's a universally misused rhetorical trick,
as much exploited by the right wing as any 
other faction.

It is not valid, wherever it is used.  It is,
however, useful in the classroom.
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Tootle wrote (this time):
> Your conclusion of 'False' is not accurate.  A synonym of gimmick is any
> clever deceptive maneuver, dirty trick or temporary expedient.

Robert replies:

I agree with your definition of "gimmic" -- I 
was referring to the implication that the gimmic 
in question was misused only by the media.

We agree that the repetition gimmic is reprehensible 
in other than educational contexts.  We might also
agree that the current state of politics is more 
like chasing pigs in a "muddy" barnyard, 
educational, if at all, in a negative sense.

And the squirrels appreciate your reference.
Our herd is increasing each year as they find
new ways to harrass our Labs.  The chipmunks
are a high note in the rodent-canine dance,
as they manage to escape by smaller and smaller
margins, causing the dogs to hit the fence with
higher and higher velocities.
-- 
Robert Skinner