By R. Duncan Luce

Abstract

Commenting on papers by top researchers can be, and in this case has been, difficult because of the paucity of valid objections around which to organize one's comments. Of course, this may just reflect the fact that neither paper is close to my major areas of interest. In any event, when facing such a problem - because when asked to be a discussant some time ago I failed to anticipate what should have been obvious - three courses of action come to mind. The most obvious, although cowardly, possibility was to call in "sick." On reflection, I realized that this task really would not resolve my problem because a conference publication typically lurks in the background, and the organizers would surely demand that I write out my undelivered comments anyhow. It is awkward to argue continued illness when one is up and about, attending other public meetings.