Argued Quote by Rebecca Goldstein
““...Plato conceived of philosophy as necessarily gregarious rather than solitary. The exposure of presumptions is best done in company, the more argumentative the better. This is why discussion around the table is so essential. This is why philosophy must be argumentative. It proceeds by way of arguments, and the arguments are argued over. Everything is aired in the bracing dialectic wind stirred by many clashing viewpoints. Only in this way can intuitions that have their source in societal or personal idiosyncrasies be exposed and questioned. ... There can be nothing like "Well, that's what I was brought up to believe," or "I just feel that it's right," or "I am privy to an authoritative voice whispering in my ear," or "I'm demonstrably smarter than all of you, so just accept that I know better here." The discussion around the seminar table countenances only the sorts of arguments and considerations that can, in principle, make a claim on everyone who signs on to the project of reason: appealing to, evaluating, and being persuaded by reasons. (pp. 38-39)””
About This Quote
Source Book: Philosophy in the Flesh, Rebecca Goldstein, 2003
Philosophy thrives on collaborative argument; exposing assumptions requires diverse viewpoints and dialectic exchange.
In simple terms: Discussion reveals hidden biases and strengthens ideas.
Key Takeaway
Seek dialogue, not echo chambers.
Themes
philosophy
dialogue
critical thinking
community
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- academic seminars
- team meetings
- public debates
- online forums
Key Concepts
dialectic
skepticism
reasoning
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you foster respectful disagreement?
- What biases surface in group discussions?
A Different Perspective
May become hostile if participants prioritize winning over truth.
