Skip to content

Argument Quote by Jonathan Swift

“Argument, as usually managed, is the worst sort of conversation, as it is generally in books the worst sort of reading.” quote by Jonathan Swift
Download Open image
“Argument, as usually managed, is the worst sort of conversation, as it is generally in books the worst sort of reading.”

Jonathan Swift

About This Quote

Source Essay: "A Tale of a Tub" (1704)

The author criticizes argument as a harmful form of conversation that often leads to poor reading experiences, suggesting it degrades thoughtful discourse.

In simple terms: Arguments can degrade conversation and reading.

Key Takeaway

Avoid arguments that hinder understanding.

Themes

communication literature criticism logic education

Mood

critical analytical

Type

philosophical instructive

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • classroom discussions
  • online forums
  • literary analysis
  • personal disagreements

Key Concepts

rhetoric dialogue intellectual honesty critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • When does argument become productive?
  • How can we foster respectful disagreement?
A Different Perspective

Some arguments are constructive and necessary for truth.

2.5 out of 5 (9 ratings)

More by Jonathan Swift

Explore all 535 Jonathan Swift quotes

More Argument quotes

Browse all 3,134 Argument quotes