Available online
Description
Many problems may be explored, and sometimes resolved, by clarifying the meaning of words; but it is a common mistake to suppose that 'defining your terms' is always something which should, or can,... be done before the discussion begins. Three misleading and useless kinds of definition are (a) the 'overwhelming' definition; (b) 'the 'beautifully simple'; (c) the 'persuasive'. But a 'stipulative' definition, given and adhered to for a particular argument, is sensible even if limited. One cannot assume that every word has a definition, or that a word should not be used unless its definition is stated; but the search for a definition may often be fruitful.
Many problems may be explored, and sometimes resolved, by clarifying the meaning of words; but it is a common mistake to suppose that 'defining your terms' is always something which should, or can,... be done before the discussion begins. Three misleading and useless kinds of definition are (a) the 'overwhelming' definition; (b) 'the 'beautifully simple'; (c) the 'persuasive'. But a 'stipulative' definition, given and adhered to for a particular argument, is sensible even if limited. One cannot assume that every word has a definition, or that a word should not be used unless its definition is stated; but the search for a definition may often be fruitful.
| Module code and title: | A101, An arts foundation course |
|---|---|
| Item code: | A101; 09 |
| Recording date: | 1977-11-22 |
| First transmission date: | 18-04-1978 |
| Published: | 1978 |
| Rights Statement: | Rights owned or controlled by The Open University |
| Restrictions on use: | This material can be used in accordance with The Open University conditions of use. A link to the conditions can be found at the bottom of all OUDA web pages. |
| Duration: | 00:17:58 |
| + Show more... | |
| Producer: | Prudence Smith |
| Contributors: | Norman Ettlinger; Oswald Hanfling |
| Publisher: | BBC Open University |
| Keyword(s): | Definition; Fallacy; Valid Argument |
| Master spool number: | TLN47950H382 |
| Production number: | TLN47950H382 |
| Available to public: | no |
