harmony wrote:DrW wrote:The fact that DCP now choses to practice his apologetics only in protected environments, and for the benefit of believers, says a lot about the strength or importance of his positions in the open market of ideas. The fact that Mormon apologetics is not taken seriously by anyone except Mormons, (and I would venture to say by fewer of those each year) is an indication of the value of DCP's work.
a few points:
1. as far as the church is concerned, there is no open market of ideas. There is the truth that they possess, and everything else.
2. Mormons are taken quite seriously by lots of people. Otherwise Mitt's membership wouldn't be of interest at all. Most people, Mormons and not, don't know what Mormon apologetics is about.This attribute of most apologists and their "work" is one that I point out to TBMs at every opportunity. Sometimes they "get it" and sometimes they don't. For those who do, it definitely constitutes an item (and additional weight) on the shelf.
Getting it is optional, in my experience.I will admit that it was amusing to see what he would come up with next while he was here, but I do not believe that his leaving has adversely affected the value or interest in the MDB.
If there are folks who just can't live without DCP's brand of apologetics, he can be found holding court on other boards where his special brand of apologetic obfuscation and dodging of the tough issues can be dispensed without opposition (and in some cases, apparently without notice).
You are, of course, entitled to your opinion. My opinion is that everyone is valuable here... everyone. And we are less when we lose people.
Liz,
I agree with your final comment here, actually. Should have used "no substantial adverse affect" terminology in describing my view on the effect of DCP's retreat.