[Gorjus]

One very good rule of thumb in debate...is that you...give...your opponent's argument, such that he himself would consider your description of his position...fair.

Exactly. While I read the Vox Day articles most of the time, this one was not convincing. Which is a shame, because I accept the basic point that valid ethics must have a basis in faith in a Supreme Being. (And I believe you can make a compelling case that Christianity is the best and most sound basis for that faith.)

However, the basis for the 'reason alone is a valid basis for morals' argument is not because Socrates says so. In this case Vox Day is just showing off his erudition, and that's arrogance, not rational discourse.

[general_re]

I agree. I have no doubt that a serious and thoughtful case can be made, exactly as you say, which is why this particular thing is rather disappointing, since it's neither serious nor thoughtful. Maybe you should send a resume to WND - they've obviously got the wrong guy on staff ;)