In our Western culture argument
"is the basis of our search for truth and the basis of our adversial system in science, law and politics." (de Bono 1991:5).
The use of argument as the central method of traditional
conversation in law, politics and science results in a
"strong tendency towards negativity and attack" (de Bono 1991:7).
"By means of argument which manoeuvres matters into a contradictory position, something can be shown to be false." (de Bono 1991:6).
"
Let us look at some of the purposes of argument ... Argument can serve to point out errors of fact. It can serve to point out ... inconsistencies. ... Argument can encourage exploration of a subject ... It can present a different set of values ... It can present different experience ... At it best argument might achieve many of these purposes." (de Bono 1991:206)
"At it worst and more usual expression, argument concentrates on proving the opposing case to be false and the people putting it forward to be both stupid and motivated by self-interest." (de Bono 1991:207)
