Christopher asked Ada Palmer:

In your opinion, who is more blameworthy in the breach of their friendship, Diderot or Rousseau?

Ada Palmer In my opinion, neither. I think we have more than enough evidence to conclude with confidence that, in addition to his kidney/incontinence problems, Rousseau suffered from mental illness -- specific manifestations of mental illness are sufficiently distinct to place and time that it isn't really appropriate to project a specific diagnosis on another century, but it's clear to me that the friendship was destroyed by elements of paranoia etc. related to Rousseau's medical situation. I don't think "blame" is appropriate in such a case, especially in a culture that didn't yet have understanding let alone treatment options for someone suffering in such a way. It was an example of how fortunate we are today to have a better understanding & capacity to help. (Meanwhile I count Diderot too in the "disability history" category since his letters speak of chronic severe digestive pain, especially after periods of intense work.)

flag

How do competitive sports work in "Terra Ignota"? Are there separate leagues for men and women, like in our world? If yes, which one did Sniper compete in? If not, is that not a major issue for female athletes in many sports?

Elettra asked Ada Palmer:

Hi, when Mycroft addresses the Reader he sometimes calls him (?) "Master", does it mean that he imagines the reader to be male?

Dennis asked Ada Palmer:

i cannot help but feel that Madame D'Arouet plays your Mary Sue? even if i am 180 deg wrong, thank you so much for sharing "Terra Ignota" with us all!!!

All answers from Ada Palmer…

Ada Palmer

1,734 followers

To ask Ada Palmer a question, please sign up.

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more

In your opinion, who is more blameworthy in the breach of their friendship, Diderot or Rousseau?

More Answered Questions

How do competitive sports work in "Terra Ignota"? Are there separate leagues for men and women, like in our world? If yes, which one did Sniper compete in? If not, is that not a major issue for female athletes in many sports?

Hi, when Mycroft addresses the Reader he sometimes calls him (?) "Master", does it mean that he imagines the reader to be male?

i cannot help but feel that Madame D'Arouet plays your Mary Sue? even if i am 180 deg wrong, thank you so much for sharing "Terra Ignota" with us all!!!

About Goodreads Q&A