My theory is that that review, and Shalizi's, are as popular as they are because nothing is more convenient than learning one doesn't have to actually do the work of considering a (set of) new ideas and perspectives.
Well, I wrote my thesis about cellular automata, and I promise I've considered Wolfram's set of ideas and perspectives. So while I can't prove anything about the popularity of Aaronson's review in general, your hypothesis is demonstrably false in at least n=1 instance.
That being said, I took a look at your website and GitHub (not to mention your employer, Wolfram Research) and it's obvious you know what you're talking about - I don't think you should be being downvoted as heavily in this thread as you are. Plus you made a Futurama reference, so you're obviously a cool dude.
My point is, let's all avoid implying that people who don't agree with us aren't qualified to discuss this subject. I think both of us are, and Wolfram is a pretty polarizing subject - one that all sides need to keep civil about sometimes.
And you did Gazehawk! Pretty cool stuff, I was telling Stephen about that a few weeks ago.
But, let me say, you're right. But I do think its part of their popularity. Also the fact that they're both very entertaining and erudite writers. And sure, there are plenty of valid criticisms, and they make them.
I love self-sealing arguments that accuse others of making self-sealing arguments. They're simultaneously contradictory and consistent. The essence of paradox and self-parody.
If their arguments are invalid, then perhaps they should be rebutted, or perhaps someone could link to another resource where they have been rebutted.
My theory is they are popular just because rants are more entertaining than reason. People just want to high-five the person who expresses their hate most eloquently.
That being said, I took a look at your website and GitHub (not to mention your employer, Wolfram Research) and it's obvious you know what you're talking about - I don't think you should be being downvoted as heavily in this thread as you are. Plus you made a Futurama reference, so you're obviously a cool dude.
My point is, let's all avoid implying that people who don't agree with us aren't qualified to discuss this subject. I think both of us are, and Wolfram is a pretty polarizing subject - one that all sides need to keep civil about sometimes.