How To Respond To a Meaningless Statement
I took a course on the philosophy of science during my freshman year in college. The professor, whom I adored, told us this story:
A swami in India had the following conversation with a student:
Student: What keeps the Earth from falling to the bottom of the universe?
Swami: It rests atop an elephant.
Student: OK, but what does the elephant rest on?
Swami: A giant turtle.
Student: I see, but what does the turtle rest on?
Swami: Oh, it’s turtles all the way to the bottom.
Our professor suggested that, whenever we come across a statement that has no meaning, we say, “Turtles!”
That’s how I respond to Clarence Thomas’ quote above. Can anyone suggest a possible interpretation that adds any workable insight into the plight in which the United States finds itself?