On sophistical argumentation
45:8
Book Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Book Description: Full of insight and wisdom, Seneca's letters are a Stoic treasure. They've influenced famous philosophers, leaders, and students over the centuries. Each letter can be read on its own. By reading this volume you'll absorb the thoughts of a thoughtful Stoic aimed at living well.
8.
Then, too, the man who is asked whether he has horns on his head is not such a fool as to feel for them on his forehead, nor again so silly or dense that you can persuade him by means of argumentation, no matter how subtle, that he does not know the facts.
Such quibbles are just as harmlessly deceptive as the juggler’s cup and dice, in which it is the very trickery that pleases me.
But show me how the trick is done, and I have lost my interest therein.
And I hold the same opinion about these tricky word-plays; for by what other name can one call such sophistries?
Not to know them does no harm, and mastering them does no good.
Book: Moral Letters Vol I
Subtitle: Seneca's timeless letters of advice and wisdom.
Author: Seneca
Chapter: On sophistical argumentation
Location: Chapter 45, Section 8
Content:
8.
Then, too, the man who is asked whether he has horns on his head is not such a fool as to feel for them on his forehead, nor again so silly or dense that you can persuade him by means of argumentation, no matter how subtle, that he does not know the facts.
Such quibbles are just as harmlessly deceptive as the juggler’s cup and dice, in which it is the very trickery that pleases me.
But show me how the trick is done, and I have lost my interest therein.
And I hold the same opinion about these tricky word-plays; for by what other name can one call such sophistries?
Not to know them does no harm, and mastering them does no good.