Absolutes are almost never a good idea to use.

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Consider the statement about absolutes in language: it asserts that using absolute terms is almost never a good idea. 
Option 1: True. This would mean that, in most cases, declaring something as always, never, all, none, etc., is unwise or inappropriate. The reasoning here hinges on the idea that human experience tends to be variable and context-dependent, so absolutes can oversimplify realities. In many writing and discussion contexts, avoiding absolutes helps prevent overgeneralization and invites nuance. This makes the claim plausible in many practical situations, especially in analytical writing, policy discussions, or critical reasoning where precision matters. 
Option 2: False. If we interpret the statement as claiming absolutes are never good, that would be too strong a blanket rule. There are scenarios where absolutes are appropriate or concise for emphasis, definitions, or logical statements (for example, mathematical truths, universal rules in code, or clear binary classifications). Therefore, categorically labeling absolutes as never good would be inaccurate in those specific contexts. 
In summary, option 1 aligns with the common caution about overgeneralization, while option 2 ignores valid, precise uses of absolutes in certain domains. The discussion highlights why many writers treat absolutes with skepticism in everyday language, yet acknowledge their utility in formal, precise, or unambiguous statements.

IW: Writing abt the Arts Odds and Ends (approx 30 min)

Absolutes are almost never a good idea to use.

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