Re: "schizophrenic" reference

[edubuc <edubuc@dm.uba.ar>]

Concerning terminology one more opinion exemplified by this example:

I think that it is a VERY BAD HABIT to attach a mathematical meaning to
words that have a comun use in every-day language, which come together
with all sorts of connotations. Like "schizofrenic".

Somebody proposed "schimatic", and I find this a good choice:

1) it is erudite and etimologically justified

2) it sounds right

3) (and more important). It is not a word known in everyday language.
For example, I did not know it (neither in spanish, english or french).

So, when I would see "schimatic" in a math text, I would say "what the
hell does it mean ?", and look at the mathematical definition. Then I
will know, and "schimatic" will have attached from now on only its
mathematical meaning.

I suggest that when in need of a word for a mathematical concept, to
look at the LATIN language, which is a DEAD language, so no problems.
And furthermore, it has a long tradition for scientific names.

(and plurals "topoi" for example ja! sorry Peter)

e.d.

Tom Leinster wrote:
> On Mon, 1 Nov 2010, Dusko Pavlovic wrote:
>
>> tom's was just the one where i blew up. i am sorry, tom.
>
> No problem.
>
> I understand that posts about terminology get tedious, but I do actually
> think this matters.  Mental health organizations constantly have to fight
> misconceptions about mental illness.  Those misconceptions can do real
> harm to those who are ill.  Schizophrenia as "split personality" is
> one of
> them.  For example, Mind, a well-known British mental health charity,
> says:
>
>     There is more media misinformation about schizophrenia than about any
>     other psychiatric diagnosis.  It's not true that schizophrenia means
>     'split personality'
>
> Many websites on mental health contain statements along similar lines; a
> few links are below.
>
> We have the freedom to choose any term we like for the mathematical
> concept.  We can do a small good thing by not choosing a term that
> perpetuates a damaging myth about a serious psychiatric disorder.
>
> Best wishes,
> Tom
>
> Links:
> http://www.mind.org.uk/help/diagnoses_and_conditions/schizophrenia#danger
> http://helpguide.org/mental/schizophrenia_symptom.htm
> http://healthmad.com/mental-health/seven-myths-and-misconceptions-about-schizophrenia/
>
> http://www.ehow.co.uk/list_6112881_common-misconceptions-schizophrenia.html
>
> http://overcomingschizophrenia.blogspot.com/2008/09/common-misconceptions-about.html
>

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