4 definitions by robindch
A person who talks about somebody or something having an abstract or ethereal "ethos", when they really mean somebody or something who recruits for one religion or another and either doesn't have the backbone to say so, or is pretending to be principally interested in something else. Used principally to describe religious people who run or work in schools, hospitals, prisons and other outlets where there are relatively large numbers of sick, vulnerable or credulous people who are open to recruitment by the religion concerned.
With reference to "tosser" (idiot).
With reference to "tosser" (idiot).
by robindch June 11, 2009
A quotewall is an 'argument-from-authority' debating tactic used by paranoid conspiracy theorists and similar people which they believe lends credence to their ideas. It consists of a group of quotations, typically between five and fifteen, from eminent-sounding names (usually with impressive sounding qualifications) who appear to support the idea that the conspiracy theorist is advocating. On closer inspection though, while some quotations may be honest representations of fact and of the opinion of the quotee, it is more common that the quotations are taken out of context, or purposefully misinterpreted, or intentionally maliciously edited to make it appear that the quotee is supporting the conspiracist's view. It also regularly happens that the quotee has insufficient understanding, or no understanding at all, of the topic to be able to pronounce upon it with any authority in the first place.
Sheesh! Did you see that Professors of Medieval English Literature quotewall which claimed that the 9/11 attacks were carried out by hobbits?
by robindch September 23, 2010
by robindch December 3, 2008
A passive statement which accepts that some hurt happened, and which laments that pain was caused, but which fails to acknowledge any responsibility on the part of the speaker for what took place.
The following extract is from an unpology issued by the Vatican in response to the 2009 Murphy Report on sexual abuse in the Dublin archdiocese: "After careful study of the Report, the Holy Father was deeply disturbed and distressed by its contents. He wishes once more to express his profound regret at the actions of some members of the clergy who have betrayed their solemn promises ... The Holy Father shares the outrage, betrayal and shame felt by so many of the faithful in Ireland ... The Holy See takes very seriously the central issues raised by the Report, including questions concerning the governance of local Church leaders with ultimate responsibility for the pastoral care of children ..."
by robindch January 1, 2010