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I agree most are not taught to write well.

However that you are the objective standard just because someone pays you is really... kind of a silly thing to say. Everyone knows that people pay for a lot of nonsense in this world, so what kind definitive proof is it that you are any good at what you do?

Keep in mind that people on FR write as they would speak, for the most part. I find it very easy to understand someone speaking even if the grammar is atrocious. Analogies and metaphors often make me slow down, and Diamond's post made use of the sawing the branch on which you sit... once you get that in your head (the branch being your assertion implied by his "So if you say that persons do not transcend animals in this regard" - I'm assuming from this statement that that humans aren't morally superior to animals), it makes sense.

As to whether or not we are taught morals - yes to an extent we have them reinforced by social structure. However, since someone brought up Mere Christianity, I will say that Christians believe that moral laws are also hard coded into each human being. The motivation to follow them, however, is corrupt, and needs nurturing. More so in some, less in others.

Since you are an expert in the area of writing, why don't you try helping Diamond rephrase his point more clearly? You *can* do that, even if you don't agree with his point of view. If you wish people to respect your ability to write and to edit their writing, that would be the way to do it, not by poking fun at theirs. I would imagine if you did that to your coworkers your yearly review would be kind of lacking in the "plays well with others" column.

LOL notice the keyword added "My ego's so big"

How did that get there? I never use them so I have no idea.

"I'm assuming from this statement that that humans aren't morally superior to animals"

Oops. Typo. Should say "you asserted" in between the first "THAT" and the second "THAT."

I especially like your last paragraph . Far to often folks tend to stab at each other for the sole purpose to put them down .

Frankly I prefer the humble approach for several reasons . To often I see the above , and in the end what is left is a tragic waste of human capital . It is a damn shame that genuine talent is shot to waste in this way , When some of us have the ability to nuture others . To step outside of ourselves .