Topics Philosophers

Question It seems that logical fallacies are regularly committed in the course of daily political dialogue. For example, many politicians support their policy decisions through appeal to the emotions of the electorate rather than their faculties of reason. If philosophers possess the tools to dissect the logic and substance of political discourse, why don't philosophers play a greater role in public life? Why isn't their a panel of philosophers to transparently dissect and scrutinise the speeches, policies and actions of contemporary politicians?

Accepted:
October 27, 2010

Comments

I do not think that specialized philosophical training is needed to dissect the speeches of candidates for elective office. Only the rudiments of critical thinking, a willingness to follow good arguments wherever they lead, and some knowledge of the relevant issues is needed. In universities and colleges, philosophers teach classes that aim to cultivate the skills useful for analyzing arguments and recognizing their strength (or weakness). We do our part in that way -- by helping to produce an electorate that can think critically, reason carefully, and express itself clearly. But the rest is up to you!