The Dilbert Afterlife (astralcodexten.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the life and legacy of Scott Adams, the creator of Dilbert, and how he was perceived by the author. The author reflects on Adams' unique blend of talents and how they contributed to his success. The article also touches on Adams' later life and how his pursuit of other interests and ideas may have affected his reputation. The author's tone is complex, balancing criticism and admiration for Adams.

Main themes

• Scott Adams' legacy
• Criticism and admiration
• Talent and success
• Legacy and reputation
• Free speech and criticism

What commenters say

• It's cowardly to criticize someone after they've died, as they can no longer respond or defend themselves.
• Criticism of the dead is not inherently cowardly, and it's a natural part of evaluating someone's legacy.
• The article is a thoughtful and nuanced exploration of Scott Adams' life and legacy, rather than a brutal or unfair criticism.
• The timing of the article, published after Adams' death, is seen as problematic by some, who feel that criticism should have been expressed while he was still alive.
• Scott Adams' willingness to speak his mind and challenge conventional wisdom is seen as both a strength and a weakness by different commenters.
• The idea that it's wrong to speak ill of the dead is not universally accepted, and some argue that it's essential to evaluate someone's legacy honestly, even if it involves criticism.
• The article's tone is seen as complex and multifaceted, balancing both positive and negative assessments of Adams' life and work.
• The value of criticizing someone after they've died is debated, with some arguing that it serves as a way to ensure the accuracy of their memory, while others see it as unnecessary or unfair.