www.activelogic.org

The ancient Greeks were the first to systematize the thinking and reasoning processes, as is evidenced by the fact that the word “philosophy” is itself of Greek origin ( “love” “wisdom”). Specifically, it was Aristotle who, in his “Prior Analytics” formulated the system of deductive logic, whereby if one acknowledges that (1) all men are mortal, and (2) Socrates is a man, then one must therefore acknowledge that (3) Socrates is mortal. Logic played an important part in Greek science” though, it should be mentioned, the Greeks believed that reasoning was the only way of making (more…)

For the most part, much of the world is random and ordered and life itself remains to be very mysterious. Time, space, and everyday living are basically the products of consistency and routine. If a routine is followed consistently, there are usually no problems. However, there are times when doing what is normally done does not yield an expected result, and then there are problems. The problems result from not doing the routine but something having occurred that will not allow normal (more…)

Creating an effective argument can come with ease as long as you utilize the benefits of logic and rhetoric. Let’s consider the role of logic first. When arguing a point, it is of upmost importance to state nothing beyond the facts. Avoid embellishments, such as metaphors, and omit words such as “obviously” or “clearly”, since these words generally reflect opinions. After explicitly stating your premise, support your position with inferences, or propositions that have already been accepted.Didn-t catch that? This explains it. Finally, state your conclusion, which should be fully supported by your (more…)

In composing your argument for the best impact, all the facts surrounding your point of view should be well thought out and logical.

Are your facts arguable?

Think of the reason why you want to argue a certain point. Weed out all the emotions that are tied into it. Then, think about the facts that you have towards the point of view you want to argue. Make sure the facts are arguable. In other words, is your argument capable of standing on its own worth or value to have (more…)