'If we can't discuss this topic using those well-defined things, what can we use?'

I am told you will find all the things you need well-defined in the JLE, and in doing so you will avoid positing a plurality without necessity, as Billy Ockham may or may not have put it.

JLE? Or JLS? If you mean the spec (JLS) then I agree, you can find everything there. Including what I wrote above - that "Java object references" are the same thing as "Java pointers" (both in the JLS). The JLS also describes parameter passing in excruciating detail, and it matches the definition of "pass-by-value" (not "pass-by-reference") exactly.

But if people in this thread could read and understand the JLS, this thread wouldn't exist. Since it does, some of us feel like we should contribute and correct the false statements we see.

You are right, JLS. With regard to whether these comparisons with C++ have led to the desired results, see elsewhere.

The well-definedness of 'C++ pointer' is a non sequitur - it is not a sufficient condition to justify its use in this context. 'Backwardation' is well-defined, yet I doubt it can contribute anything to this discussion.

If you consider the context of my statement, and not my statement as it stands in isolation, then you are mistaken.