Arguing Quote by Steven Pinker
“Reason is non-negotiable. Try to argue against it, or to exclude it from some realm of knowledge, and you've already lost the argument, because you're using reason to make your case. ... We don't "believe" in reason.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Better Angels of Our Nature by Steven Pinker, 2011
Reason is essential; denying it undermines any argument because you rely on it to argue.
In simple terms: Reason is unavoidable in debate.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge reason's role.
Themes
logic
argumentation
critical thinking
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- political debate
- legal reasoning
- ethical discussions
Key Concepts
philosophy
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we ensure reason stays objective?
- What limits reason in complex issues?
A Different Perspective
Reason can be biased by assumptions.
