Argument Quote by William Petty
“The method I take to do this is not yet very usual; for instead of using only comparative and superlative Words, and intellectual Arguments, I have taken the course (as a Specimen of the Political Arithmetic I have long aimed at) to express myself in Terms of Number, Weight, or Measure; to use only Arguments of Sense, and to consider only such Causes, as have visible Foundations in Nature.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Political Arithmetic, 1675
He proposes using measurable, tangible evidence instead of abstract language to argue, emphasizing observable natural causes.
In simple terms: Use concrete data over vague words.
Key Takeaway
Base arguments on observable facts.
Themes
empiricism
clarity
logic
science
communication
Mood
thoughtful
analytical
Type
philosophical
educational
When to use this quote
- policy analysis
- academic writing
- debate
- scientific research
Key Concepts
quantification
evidence
rationalism
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you balance data with nuance?
- When is qualitative insight essential?
A Different Perspective
Complex issues may resist simple quantification.
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