Perhaps my many years in medical research have inured me to some of
the more earthy aspects of science, but why should comparison of some
aroids smell to excrement and decay be criticized, since that is
exactly what nature has designed it to be?
With regard to shapes, well I suppose we could start by renaming one
of the better known aroid genera to Amorphoyadayada, which would
accomplish nothing but denote prudishness by the namer. Sex is all
about us in nature, whether by design or our own perception.
About 5 years ago, a list existed which was owned by a very
knowledgeable horticulturist who absolutely refused to allow virtually
any other subject to be discussed on the list. Finally the
haranguing to stay on subject got to one list member and wigged out
and trashed the owner on-list. Long story short, the list dissolved
since there was no overwhelming sympathy for either of the 2
individuals involved.
I have been a member of Aroid-l for quite some time and rarely have
the moderators had to steer the discussion away from
inappropriate topics, usually political or religious in nature.
I would suggest that anyone concerned, read a bit farther in the
description of the Aroid-l , at least the version that I received
last in 1999. It continues on the say that Aroid-l,
"has been set up at the Missouri Botanical Garden in order to
provide a forum covering all facets of the study of the aroid family
throughout the world. Horticultural information, accounts of collecting
trips, technical info, trips to botanical gardens that have extensive
collections of aroids will be grist for our discussion mill."
It does not say "only facets found inoffensive to all members will be
discussed"
Yes, I suppose we could have a very narrow discussion on only the
most strictly kosher aspects of aroid biology, but quite frankly, it
wouldn't be nearly as much fun.
Thanks for listening to my rant,
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