Argument Quote by Ethan Allen
““Those who invalidate reason, ought seriously to consider, 'whether they argue against reason, with or without reason; if with reason, then they establish the principle, that they are laboring to dethrone;' but if they argue without reason, (which, in order to be consistent with themselves, they must do,) they are out of the reach of rational conviction, nor do they deserve a rational argument.””
About This Quote
Source Essay: Thoughts on the Nature of Reason, 1775
Reason must be the basis of argument; without it, claims lack rational credibility.
In simple terms: Arguments need reason to be convincing.
Key Takeaway
Use reason, avoid irrational claims.
Themes
reasoning
argumentation
logic
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- debates
- legal arguments
- public policy
- personal disagreements
Key Concepts
philosophy
critical thinking
rhetoric
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you examine your own reasoning for consistency?
- How can you challenge irrational arguments effectively?
A Different Perspective
Reason alone doesn't guarantee truth; emotions and biases still affect outcomes.
