Bilateral Argument

Who is the theorist for Bilateral Argument

Johnstone

Argumentation

Rhetoric in anything other than complete control over another person. You have an option. (very broad definition)

argument does something to you, exposes you as a human being

Identity

We are the sum of our convictions. We are all the arguments that have been given to us

Convictions

beliefs, judgements, and values

Horizon of Experience

Immediate experience. Immediate things that you believe/are part of you identity. Statements, not assertions

Statements

something you believe

Assertions

claim you want others to believe

Being

someone who lives in a single horizon of experience. A being is not human. They don’t want to risk changing what they believe, they live in a world of statements with a closed mind

3 options being has in argumentation

1. don’t listen to the argument

2. make others like you, believe your horizon of experience

3. give up your horizon of experience to completely follow others

How does a being become human (wedge)

through argument. Argumentation is the wedge that separates you are your horizon of experience

Putting your opinions/horizon of experience out there…

creates tension. You risk

1. Being rejected. another’s horizon of experience may not accept your claims

2. Changing your values + beliefs as you consider and listen to other’s argument

Why is there tension when you put a wedge between horizon and experience

There is a tension between who you were and what you are asked to be. If you are a sum of your beliefs, and putting your beliefs out there you risk them being changed as you are willing to look at other’s opinions, this creates tension

4 aspects of bilateral argumentation

1. Respect. You have to respect the free will of interlocutors and allow them to disagree or agree

2. Risk. You have to be willing to put yourself and your horizon at risk of rejection and change

3. Salience. you have to care to put your opinions out there/risk them

4. Tension. there is a tension between what you were and what you may become

The 4 aspects of bilateral argumentation, respect, risk, salience, tension, are…

The 4 ingredients of an ideal argument

What are the 3 consequences of arguers and addressees

1. You develop yourself, become more human, and expand your horizon of experience

2. Argumentation creates openness and tolerance

3. Argument becomes a definitive feature of living in a world, not just your own world.