Academics Quote by Steven Pinker
““The goal of argumentation is to make a case so forceful (note the metaphor) that skeptics are coerced into believing it—they are powerless to deny it while still claiming to be rational. In principle, it is the ideas themselves that are, as we say, compelling, but their champions are not always averse to helping the ideas along with tactics of verbal dominance, among them intimidation (“Clearly . . .”), threat (“It would be unscientific to . . .”), authority (“As Popper showed . . .”), insult (“This work lacks the necessary rigor for . . .”), and belittling (“Few people today seriously believe that . . .”). Perhaps this is why H. L. Mencken wrote that “college football would be more interesting if the faculty played instead of the students.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The Stuff of Thought by Steven Pinker, 2005
Argumentation aims to compel belief through forceful rhetoric, often using intimidation, authority, or belittling, rather than pure logical merit.
In simple terms: Forceful rhetoric can override rational resistance.
Key Takeaway
Beware of manipulative tactics.
Themes
rhetoric
persuasion
power dynamics
critical thinking
Mood
cautious
analytical
Type
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- debates
- academic writing
- political speeches
- media commentary
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
social influence
argumentation theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you distinguish compelling ideas from coercive tactics?
- What safeguards can protect rational discourse?
A Different Perspective
Such tactics can undermine genuine discourse and alienate audiences.
