Logic, truth and politics

Madsen Pirie's new book, 'How to win every argument: the use and abuse of logic' is just out. A handy guide to logical fallacies, the book is faintly disturbing for being written in the style of a manual for trainee politicians out to win arguments by employing such fallacies. Saved, or hoping to be saved, by its studied air of irony with which it advises when the petitio principi can be got away with, this leaves an odd taste in the mouth. Of course we know that much of our national and parliamentary discourse is eristic and not dialectical, concerned with scoring points and winning out rather than coming to the truth. Still, it is disturbing to find a book that so cold-bloodedly plays to that audience. A Sophist's Handbook would appear to be a suitable alternative title. Still, it will find an avid audience among those aiming at the green benches or even just the comfy chairs of television studios. For those who have an interest in truth, it can also clarify their appreciation of the tricks that are being played. Pirie is rather unsavoury for playing to both audiences at once. Unfortunately, if it isn't a book you can love, it is a book both sides can use. Have a read.