Date: Wed, 3 May 1995 08:28:01 -0500
From: elorsbch-AT-otto.tcd.ie
Subject: Re: HAB: patheticism conference



Dear Brad,

It is interesting that you automatically assume that we are *championing*
the phenomena that we describe in the conference call for papers (or
"getting off" on our own admittedly somewhat glib wording - the brevity
required of such a format can lend that appearance).  Critiques (such as
yours above via Nietzsche) are also welcome - from those who can take the
discussion seriously enough not to be snide.  After all, even if you (think
you) violently disagree with a position, why participate at all in the
debate if your only intention is to summarily dismiss?  Whatever happened
to communicative rationality?

Besides, Venturi's kitsch postmodernism would *NOT* be an example of "the
pathetic" although Nietzsche arguably might be. 

Sincerely yours,

Patheticism Conference Committee