more on (moron?) grammar

[Jeff Ollerton]

Robin Leech's example of a "correct" use of a double negative: "He could not
not refuse her request" may be grammatically acceptable (though I have my
doubts), but it's tortuous english - what's wrong with "He could not comply
with her request" or "He was forced to not comply with her request"?

As for the assertion that good english promotes good science - I have two
comments:

1.  Does that mean that good science can not be done in another language?

2.  Where is the evidence?  I would agree that the communication of science is
promoted by good english, but it could be crappy science that's being well
communicated!

I'm all for pushing grammatical boundaries as well as the boundaries of science.


Jeff Ollerton
Nene College
Northampton
UK