Able Quote by Aristotle
“We ought to be able to persuade on opposite sides of a question; as also we ought in the case of arguing by syllogism: not that we should practice both, for it is not right to persuade to what is bad; but in order that the bearing of the case may not escape us, and that when another makes an unfair use of these reasonings, we may be able to solve them.”
About This Quote
Source Work: Rhetoric, 4th century BC
Use logical argument to understand opposing views, but avoid persuading others toward harmful ideas.
In simple terms: Study arguments, but don’t promote bad causes.
Key Takeaway
Analyze before you advocate.
Themes
ethics
logic
communication
Mood
reflective
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- debates
- policy discussions
- education
- media analysis
Key Concepts
rhetoric
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- When is it right to argue a bad position?
- How can you expose faulty reasoning?
A Different Perspective
Persuasion can be misused; ethical limits are hard to define.
