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Argument Quote by William Chillingworth

“Passionate expression and vehement assertion are no arguments, unless it be of the weakness of the cause that is defended by them, or of the man that defends it.” quote by William Chillingworth
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“Passionate expression and vehement assertion are no arguments, unless it be of the weakness of the cause that is defended by them, or of the man that defends it.”

William Chillingworth

About This Quote

An argument that passionate or forceful speech is not true argument unless it reveals the cause’s weakness or the defender’s flaws.

In simple terms: Passionate speech isn’t argument unless it shows deeper flaws.

Key Takeaway

Seek logical substance over emotion.

Themes

philosophy argumentation logic

Mood

thoughtful critical

Type

philosophical analytical

When to use this quote

  • debates
  • academic writing
  • public discourse

Key Concepts

rhetoric critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How to distinguish strong arguments from mere passion?
  • When is passion a valid evidence?
A Different Perspective

Emotions can sometimes reveal truth.

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