Originally Posted by
SPN Lifer (Post # 88)
[ W]e can never know for sure, beyond a reasonable doubt, because this is UA proprietary information. But we can indeed form reliable conclusions based upon a preponderance of the available evidence. [Emphasis added.]
Originally Posted by
LaserSailor (Post # 89)
false. Evidence here is not random, and does not constitute a preponderance of GS activity.
The evidence is indeed a preponderance of the "available" evidence, that is, what we have here on FlyerTalk.
It is quite true that FlyerTalkers are a self-selected sample, not representative of the GS population at large. Yet what is the purpose of FlyerTalk, if not to share and obtain information, draw conclusions therefrom, and act accordingly?
The conclusions to be drawn are not for a criminal conviction or scientific study, but to help in deciding our behavior. For example, newly demoted Premier 1K members need to figure out what, if anything, they can do about it. Whether to just accept it, collectively contact UA through their employer, seek a challenge, move spend to another carrier or carriers, etc.
This conclusion about UA being averse to "double discounts" through both GS membership and corporate discounts does indeed seem reliable enough to inform one's actions.
Yet we do all have different certainty requirements in deciding things.