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May 17, 2013
ssc
9 min 1,078 words 46 comments podcast
Scott satirically proposes and 'proves' that morality is a form of gravity, using pseudo-scientific reasoning and calculations. Longer summary
This satirical post humorously proposes that morality is a form of gravity, using pseudo-scientific reasoning to 'prove' this theory. Scott starts by noting how gravitational language is used in moral discourse, then applies an inverse square law to moral obligations based on distance. He 'confirms' this theory by comparing charitable giving to Africa with the theory's predictions, and calculates the exact distance one needs to be from a beggar to avoid feeling guilty. The post uses a mix of real data and absurd logic to parody certain types of scientific and philosophical arguments. Shorter summary