Based on your first comment, it seemed that you were inferring that the author wasn't aware of what a Taoist's approach would be: I was pointing out that Smullyan was aware of Taoism. That wasn't an appeal to authority, it was context for the piece. It seems, however, you were aware of that. But I had no way to know from your first comment. So no real argument there. Although it's clear we disagree on the effectiveness of the piece.But since you make an appeal to authority (a classic technique in argument) can I assume we are now arguing?
a Taoist would ask "Why is God arguing with himself." a Taoist would also find the notion of God creating a universe incredibly bizarre. They would ask something like "did you step outside yourself and construct your thumb?."
Ok, cool. well as a Zen practitioner of many years I guess my answer to Smullyan's question would be "wuhh?" If I were a Zen master I'd shout a random sound or possibly smack him upside the head with my staff, as is the tradition of course.