[Cerek the Barbaric]

Originally posted by Night Stalker: JD Nice quip. I don't recal actually taking a position in the matter, just mentioning that an inference of that sort given the data provided could be made. Second, an inference not equivilent to an assumption. They are similar, in that they are both guesses, but the similarity ends there. An assumption is a guess on a pre-existing criterium prior to performing an exercise or computation that produces a data set. The better the assumptions made, the better the data set will be. An inference is a deduction based on a given data set. The more complete and accurate a data set is, the better deductions can be made from that set. I did say that they were over broad generalizations, but given 1) the comment of the woman and 2)general Amercian comfort level talking about sex, that that deduction could be made. Never did I pass judgement on that position though, though one could be implied by my tone of response .... and what did you say about assumptions? Actually, it would be an inference. Finally since you seem to want to expose the hypocracy of those that cry tolerance. Tolerating an idea is not the same as acception the idea. It is just accepting that other ideas have the right to exist. I accept her right to her position. I just find her comment about viewing the content with her husband would be embarassing interesting.

The only problem with your "inference" Night Stalker is that the data set and criterium used for the inference is woefully inadequate. Your inference is based on a single comment made by a stranger. You know nothing of her background, upbringing, religious beliefs (or lack thereof), or her moral values. As John D. pointed out, there are a number of reasons why she may have felt embarassed. I mentioned a few and Mr. Harris mentioned others. Your second assumption about the willingness of the population in general to discuss sex is another broad-based assumption without any data offered to back it up.

The problem with "inferring" something is that most inferences are made from a biased POV - whether deliberately or accidentally. You are basing your inference on your perception of two very general pieces of data without any supporting evidence to support your preconceived presumptions.

The result is that your "inference" has a better chance of being wrong than it does of being correct due to the lack of specific data used to support the assumptions made to reach it.

And - YES - that is an "inference" of my own regarding your inference.