What Is A Good Argument?
What is a good argument? According to Aristotle, a good argument is intricately linked to his philosophical exploration of logic and dialectical reasoning. Aristotle’s notion of a good argument is deeply rooted in the distinction between logical demonstrations and dialectical arguments, a dichotomy he carefully elucidates in his philosophical framework.
In Aristotle’s logical realm, a good argument, specifically within the context of logical demonstrations, is characterized by the truth and primacy of its premises. Logical demonstrations, aiming for systematic clarity, demand that the foundational premises be inherently true before leading to a valid conclusion. Aristotle’s logical ideal hinges on the deductive structure, emphasizing the precision of logical relationships among propositions.
Conversely, in the realm of dialectical arguments, Aristotle introduces a different criterion for assessing goodness—an acceptance-based approach. A good dialectical argument, according to Aristotle, is one that is accepted by a certain group of people or a particular kind of reflective individual. The acceptance criterion underscores the pragmatic nature of dialectical reasoning, moving away from absolute truths to considerations of what is acceptable within a given context.
In Aristotle’s view, a good argument within dialectical reasoning involves not only the discovery of premises leading to a conclusion but also a discernment of which premises an interlocutor would reasonably concede. This multifaceted approach to dialectic acknowledges the limitations of a highly systematic logical structure and recognizes the dynamic nature of argumentation.
Aristotle’s classification of dialectical argument procedures further shapes the concept of a good argument. Procedures involving opposites, cases, and relations of more, less, and likewise contribute to constructing coherent and acceptable arguments. A good argument in this context is one that effectively navigates through these procedures, aligning with the accepted beliefs of a reflective audience.
In summary, Aristotle’s notion of a good argument encompasses different criteria based on the specific philosophical context. Within logical demonstrations, truth and primacy of premises define goodness, while in dialectical arguments, acceptance by a certain group of individuals becomes the yardstick for evaluating the strength of an argument. Aristotle’s nuanced approach reflects his recognition of the diverse nature of reasoning and argumentation, contributing to the enduring legacy of his philosophical insights.
