While I'm on the subject of reviewers: have you read any of the reviews of Intellectual Morons on Amazon? Most of the reviews--favorable and unfavorable--show no signs that the reviewer actually read the book. Some posting on Amazon even concede this. One reviewer writes: "I have not read the book but I did watch Flynn's presentation of it at Colby, as broadcast this morning (Sunday, 31Oct2004) on C-SPAN 2, so I think I have a pretty good idea of what is in it." Another admits: "I sent this book back after reading the chapter on Leo Strauss." When did it become acceptable to review books that you haven't read?
Apparently when people got internet connections.
I thought that comments like that were against Amazon.com's policy. If you ask they will probably pull them.
It is never acceptable to have an opinion on anything you have no personal direct knowledge of. It is an absolute fraud to review a book without reading it. Much like dissing A Michael Moore movie without seeing it.
I disagree with your principle Robert. I think there is nothing wrong with having opinions, and even strong ones, about things one has no direct knowledge of. Otherwise for starters I would have no historical knowledge at all.
The fact that these reviewers haven't read the book only means they are quite likely to mischaracterize the book (as even those who read it are still capable of doing) and their opinions should be taken with that in mind.
In the case of history, one’s opinion would have more validation as they studied the available information and first hand accounts. It is understood that none of us have personal information of the Revolutionary War.
Regarding current literature/movies/music, 100% of what your opinion is based upon what is available. To have a valid opinion
you should know of what you’re opining. It is insulting and fraudulent to review a book without reading it. Most would agree reading the book, seeing the movie, hearing the music validates the review/opinion. Not doing so, invalidates it.
Dan,
Heard you on Howie Carr last week. Good segment, albeit, short.
Some decent call ins.
Millie the cat is a lunitic.
