mu00

The two problems I spot are (1) You had to include an edit to your original comment to try and clarify what your original post was referring to (Reagan vs Biden) rather than just stating that and (2) the seemingly unnecessary "dementia patient" reference in the context of what you posted. FYI, my account is young so I am unable to downvote anything.

> could you please explain the difference between Reagan having the nuclear football and Biden having the nuclear football

Seeing as the protocol is for the President of the United States to have control over the nuclear arsenal, I don't think there is a difference. Are you suggesting that there is a difference? It is unclear your intention. Perhaps someone else will care to know what your discussion goal is here.

I think the "anger" is merited since the students (1) cheated when they were clearly told not to and (2) marked answers that were "obviously wrong" which implies that not even a modicum of effort was invested in demonstrating knowledge.

The "busy" argument is a poor one. We're all busy. Part of gaining an education is learning how to manage your time. As a professor myself, I know for a fact that most students manage their time poorly, yet many students will still pull the "busy" argument when it simply doesn't apply. Rather, just admit to procrastinating. Either way, the outcome is the same (poor performance).

To sum up my sentiments to cheaters... "Play stupid games, win stupid prizes."

> how would they have performed if they tried to cheat but didn't find the poisoned answers?

I don't think this matters. Cheating was against the rules and a cheater demonstrates a failure to adhere to a social contract and voluntarily waives their right to be assessed the same with those who did follow the rules. At least there are avenues for a cheater to have another attempt, even if they have to move to another institution.