Pubblicazione: Whether and How Classical Topics can be Revived Within Contemporary Argumentation Theory

Istituto di argomentazione, linguistica e semiotica

Data d'inizio: 11 Marzo 2009

Data di fine: 12 Marzo 2009

L'Istituto linguistico semiotico (ILS) è lieto di annunciare l'articolo del prof. Eddo Rigotti:

Whether and How Classical Topics can be Revived
Within Contemporary Argumentation Theory

pubblicato nel Libro “Pondering on Problems of Argumentation: Twenty essays on Theoretical Issues”, edito da Frans H. Van Eemeren e Bart Garssen. Il libro è della casa editrice “Springer”.

Abstract
The present paper aims to identify the conditions at which classical topics can re recovered by contemporary argumentation theory. Indeed, several features characterizing traditional topics seem to be incompatible both with certain methodological principles of modern epistemology and contemporary communicative practices. In fact, a usual image of topics – often presented as a “machinery” that automatically produces arguments – suggests a claim that our epistemology could not admit. However, topics is more precisely interpreted as that component of argumentation theory which generates arguments by specifying their inferential structure. Moreover, traditional topics seems to presuppose a stable and shared conceptual system which is nowadays seen as problematic. The present paper expounds a first sketch of a consistent and coherent model taking into account both modern semantics and pragmatics and the new argumentative practices exercised within the modern society. The model of topics outlined here serves three fundamental purposes: identifying the inferential processes activated in argumentative interactions; evaluating the dialectical and rhetorical effectiveness of argumentative discourses; supporting the construction of argumentative interventions. Conclusive remarks highlight a series of open  questions and outline possible developments of this ongoing research enterprise. 

Keywords: topics, locus, maxim, endoxon.

 

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