Note that your equality \(e^{i\tau} = 1\) implies only that \(e^{i\pi} = \pm1\), hence is strictly weaker than Euler's equality (which picks a sign). I think that you might have meant \(e^{i\tau/2} = -1\). (Is there a way to do LaTeX properly here?)
I should have anticipated this confusion, which resulted from my infelicitous use of the phrase "A modest proposal". The Tau Manifesto is meant to be fun, but it's definitely not a parody. For clarity, I've changed the name of the section in question.
I think real. Although I didn't read all of the article I think the main thrust was that since 2pi appears in so many places in math that a constant based on the ratio of circumference to radius rather than diameter would be more appropriate. Realistically I think there are better ways to spend your time but ....
Not exactly, since there is only one constant to convert (not many units) and the conversion factor is very straightforward (2 pi = 1 tau instead of 39.37 inches = 1 meter). But yes in that many people would have to change their ways.
Though it shares some elements of propagandistic tone, the Tau Manifesto is unlike Swift's proposal in the most important sense, in that it's perfectly serious. Using the phrase "a modest proposal" in this context was a dubious choice (to say the least). I've changed the section name for clarity.
