Here's yet another idea for us to think about:
We could begin by brainstorming. That is, each one of us could
develop his own list of unanswered questions, organizing our suggestions
using whatever structure and method we prefer, and post the results.
We would then agree to take some time reading each other's posts and then
talk about what we have to do next in terms of taking those suggestions,
organizing, and structuring them (and critically examining the suggestions).
I don't know if this is the best way to proceed. I think there are
advantages and disadvantages to each of the proposals that have been
advanced.
The advantages of brainstorming include:
a) it provides everyone with an opportunity to get whatever concerns he has
off of his chest and out in the open.
b) it would be a morale-booster in the sense that we could, at least, see
a lot of suggestions and possibilities.
c) it might allow us to get the raw material for the listing in a
relatively expeditious manner.
d) it avoids a long discussion about procedure at the outset.
e) if, after brainstorming, we decide that we want to examine Marx's
plans, then we can do so. If we decide that a more systematic way of
addressing unanswered questions is needed, then we could do that as well
after brainstorming (remembering that this is just an initial listing of
thoughts that come to mind).
Disadvantages include:
a) it might make it more difficult later on to organize the suggestions.
b) it provides no common structure for us to organize our ideas.
c) it avoids methodological questions (which will most assuredly come up
later).
I'm not ready to say that I am in favor of this idea. However, it is
something for us to consider.
In OPE-L solidarity,
Jerry