Steps for Constructing a Philosophical Argument

Introduction

Philosophical arguments seek to explore and understand the essence of truths and beliefs. Unlike arguments driven by personal gain or quick wins, philosophical arguments are rooted in reasoned discourse that builds upon established truths through logical deduction. This article delves into the necessary steps to construct a sound philosophical argument, drawing from the foundational works of philosophers like Plato.

The Essence of a Philosophical Argument

A philosophical argument is built systematically, starting from a true statement (the premise) and using valid logical structures to draw a conclusion. A strong argument must be repeatable, connecting back to the various true premises, and leading to a logical and coherent final conclusion.

The Role of Reading and Analyzing Plato’s Works

Begin your journey into philosophical arguments by exploring the works of Plato. All philosophical arguments can be traced back to Plato’s influence, and his plays offer rich insight into the art of discourse. Through his dialogues, such as Phaedrus, you can learn about the structure and substance of discourse.

Understanding the Art of Discourse

In Phaedrus, Plato discusses the art of discourse, explaining how a philosophical argument should be constructed. He provides examples of various discourse types and offers a detailed analysis of the writings of ancient philosophers. By studying these texts, one can understand the foundational principles of a coherent argument.

Types of Philosophical Discussions

Philosophical discussions differ significantly from casual arguments. These discussions are intended for the enrichment of knowledge and wisdom, and participants present reasonable and decent opinions. They often quote scriptures and scholarly works to support their points, ensuring that the discourse remains respectful and intellectual.

The Structure of Philosophical Arguments

Fact-Based Premises: Start with well-established facts or truths, which serve as the foundation of your argument. These should be statements that are widely accepted or have sufficient evidence to support them. Valid Logical Structures: Use sound logical structures to build your argument. This includes avoiding logical fallacies such as ad hominem attacks or straw man arguments. Ensure that each step of your argument logically follows from the previous ones. Defensible Conclusion: Your final conclusion should be a natural extension of your premises. It should be supported by the logical progression of your argument and provide a meaningful insight or conclusion. Scriptural Evidence: In philosophical discussions, referencing scriptural or scholarly evidence is common. Cite appropriate works to lend credibility to your argument. Respectful Debate: Throughout the discussion, maintain a respectful and professional demeanor. Focus on the ideas and arguments rather than personal attacks. This ensures that the discourse remains enriching and productive.

Unlike casual arguments, which may degenerate into insults and abusive language, philosophical discussions are characterized by mutual respect and the pursuit of truth. Participants are encouraged to engage in reasoned discourse, even if they disagree, and to revisit their opinions based on further research and knowledge.

Conclusion

Constructing a philosophical argument is a meticulous and structured process. By starting with true statements, using valid logical structures, and respectfully engaging in discourse, one can build a compelling and meaningful argument. Continue to study the works of Plato and other philosophers to deepen your understanding of the art of discourse and enhance your argumentative skills.