There is no need to write a 20-page post, let alone a book. But that doesn't mean your only remaining option is barb. Regarding the responses to those philosophical articles, you could have responded briefly yet earnestly.

As for the Russell quotation: No, I do not think an article should argue for every claim it makes. (It would not be a book; it would be a universe.) But the quotation was a dig at those self-important philosophers. That's why, I thought, it made the post seem applause-lighty.

I guess you're right that the post doesn't really approve of Glymour's suggestion. I mistakenly read your approval into it.

Thanks for keeping the tone of this thread reasonable.