Path: utzoo!attcan!uunet!ginosko!husc6!m2c!jjmhome!cloud9!cme
From: cme@cloud9.Stratus.COM (Carl Ellison)
Newsgroups: comp.graphics
Subject: Re: Tangents to three circles
Summary: (counterexample <> ridicule)
	(counterexample = friendship)
Message-ID: <7278@cloud9.Stratus.COM>
Date: 24 Aug 89 14:06:14 GMT
References: <11391@polya.Stanford.EDU> <902@mrsvr.UUCP>
Organization: Stratus Computer, Inc., Marlboro, MA
Lines: 37

In article <902@mrsvr.UUCP>, hallett@shoreland.uucp (Jeff Hallett x4-6328) writes:
> [ . . . ] [this newsgroup as] a pool from
> which anyone may draw when they have difficulty without fear of
> ridicule.
>   [ . . . ]
> Just demonstrating
> counterexamples, without any other useful information, is demeaning to
> someone who may already feel sheepish about asking publicly in the
> first place.

If you (or any other reader) is already feeling sheepish or inferior or
otherwise insecure about his or her mathematical ability, this message
may not help, but this is an important point to me so let me make it again.

In mathematics, between mathematicians, providing a counterexample which
totally disproves or demolishes someone else's most cherished belief is
a normal action -- an opportunity to be siezed if it ever presents itself.
Mathematicians do sieze that opportunity.  The counterexample is presented
dryly or with relish but never with any salesman-like words trying to smooth
ruffled feelings or egos.  A good mathematician is oblivious to the concept
of egos which need soothing.

This is *not* a personal attack.  This does not drive mathematicians or
computer scientists apart.  This is behavior between friends.  When this
happens, the recipient mathematician is thankful.  It is only because I
like you that I would bother to type in a counterexample shooting down
your claim or type this message reminding you that you're not under attack.

So, please, don't react as if someone were attacking you.  We love you.

Finally, there is no reason to post other useful information.  Coming up
with the counterexample and posting it is already a great gift.  It deserves
your heartfelt thanks.

--Carl Ellison                      UUCP::  cme@cloud9.Stratus.COM
SNail:: Stratus Computer; 55 Fairbanks Blvd.; Marlborough MA 01752
Disclaimer::  (of course)