Science of Argument part 1

THE SCIENCE OF ARGUMENT

Reasons

You may have the idea by now that philosophy deals in matters that are often connected to people's fundamental beliefs and values. Many philosophical puzzles have been around for a long time (thousands of years) and are likely to continue to puzzle people for much longer. Perhaps it is the seeming intractability of philosophical issues that leads many people to regard Philosophy as having no practical consequences for us. An oft heard complaint is that the issues of philosophy rely entirely on "opinion,", or that "it is all subjective anyway."

It is true that philosophical positions involve the assertion of various opinions and points of view. Yet, this alone does not make philosophy into a mere pulpit for opinions. Indeed, far more important than the actual opinions or views expressed are forms of reasoning that one is able to give for those opinions and views.

Opinions without justifying reasons are mere claims. Opinions with justifying reasons are arguments.

Since at least the time of Socrates (circa 470-399 BC), philosophers have made it their business to examine the reasoning by which various opinions and views are supported. It may be so that an opinion cannot be determined true or false by simply by reference to itself. But it is possible to evaluate the strength or weakness of the reasoning one adopts in support of an opinion. For that matter, when we look just a little bit into the views many people hold we may find that there are no real reasons given at all. In that case, it is sheer opinion and there may be little to say about it other than it is an unreasoned opinion.

Opinions without justifying reasons are merely claims. Opinions with justifying reasons are arguments. The philosophical view requires us to attend to arguments, not mere opinions. Philosophy encourages us to look for the possible justifying reasons someone may have for holding an opinion or belief. It also demands of us to investigate the reasons underlying our own opinions and beliefs.

The process of being engaged in a personal investigation of one's own beliefs and opinions is a very powerful means to maturity in thought and the growth of self knowledge. Just knowing what you believe doesn't lead to much growth (though, it does lead to more growth than not knowing!) Knowing why you believe it, on the other hand, is tremendously enlightening.

There are two different ways in which we can interpret the notion of why you believe something: the question why? can be answered by giving an explanation or by giving an argument. Both kinds of reasons are clarified below.