Re: LOGO-L> Papert at the 92nd St. Y

[gary mccallister <mccallis@mesa5.mesa.colorado.edu>]

     I am not a Papert fan or defender.  I am a Logo fan.  I find Paperts 
ideas compelling and interesting, but I use Logo because it meets my 
needs.  However, I think you are confusing the message with the 
messenger.  Many people with earthshaking  are not impressive in person 
for any of a variety of reasons.  Their Physical presence may not be 
formidable or beautiful.  They may not be graceful or sociable.  Some, 
from my experience, are pompous and arrogant.  Of course, some are frauds.
Some people with compelling ideas may not be adept at expressing the 
ideas.  Some who are compelling with language have no worthwhile ideas.  
Papert seems to have interesting ides and be able to express them well in 
the written format.
      Also, judging someones ability in front of a crowd with a time 
limit is not the same as the persons behavior one on one.  Remember 
elementary school math.  Solving math problems at home or your desk IS 
NOT THE SAME AS AT THE BLACKBOARD.  There is a consciouness of the need 
to use time effectively, of embarressment, of wasting peoples time, of 
covering all the essential points (in your mind) in the time alloted, 
etc.  Speaking in front of a large group of mostly strangers is NOT the 
same as being in front of a class that you are with on a regular basis.
      Judging a philosophy or idea on the basis of the philosopher is not 
clear thinking or good judgement.  Logo as it has evolved meets certain 
needs and helps establish a certain kind of atmosphere and learning.  If 
that is the one you want, use it. 
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