What has particularly struck me in reading on this topic is the degree to which statements of fact or logic are often interwoven with rhetorical style that serves to sway opinion by means other than reason [...]
There’s recently been vigorous debate on lesswrong about whether that’s the case.
I am not sure what “that” refers to in “whether that’s the case” . Based on the segment of my post they quoted, it sounds like there’s been debate about whether it’s the case that facts and logic are often interwoven with rhetorical persuasion devices when making arguments. But I suspect the commenter is referring to my wondering whether it would be advantageous to avoid mixing facts and logic with rhetorical persuasion devices when making arguments. If there has been vigorous debate on lesswrong on the latter topic, I would like to read it. Can anyone provide links or keywords?
My interpretation of the commenter’s intent is supported by their further saying
the quoted claim is not clearly well enough justified to conclude the case about whether moderating impulses towards confident wording is useful.
I will note that I didn’t make a claim about this, much less attempt to provide any sort of evidence. So far I only suggested some possible arguments for and against the first thought that came to my mind. My intention was to invite a discussion on the pros and cons of this idea.
in response to my remark
@the gears to ascension wrote
I am not sure what “that” refers to in “whether that’s the case” . Based on the segment of my post they quoted, it sounds like there’s been debate about whether it’s the case that facts and logic are often interwoven with rhetorical persuasion devices when making arguments. But I suspect the commenter is referring to my wondering whether it would be advantageous to avoid mixing facts and logic with rhetorical persuasion devices when making arguments. If there has been vigorous debate on lesswrong on the latter topic, I would like to read it. Can anyone provide links or keywords?
My interpretation of the commenter’s intent is supported by their further saying
I will note that I didn’t make a claim about this, much less attempt to provide any sort of evidence. So far I only suggested some possible arguments for and against the first thought that came to my mind. My intention was to invite a discussion on the pros and cons of this idea.