How Philosophers Argue: An Adversarial Collaboration on the Russell--Copleston Debate

This book presents a double argumentative analysis of the debate between Bertrand Russell and Frederick Copleston on the existence of God, using the ideal model of critical discussion and argument dialectic. It highlights the questions raised over and beyond the presiding question and examines almost a hundred questions that are raised. It also addresses the complementarity of the two approaches.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 472 pages
Publication date: 23 February 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive volume delves into a double argumentative analysis of the profound debate between Bertrand Russell and Frederick Copleston, exploring the existence of God. It begins with an introduction that justifies the selection of this particular text and provides a comprehensive historical and philosophical background of the debate. Additionally, a transcript of the debate, based on the original recording, is included, offering a firsthand account of the intellectual exchange between the two renowned thinkers.

The argumentative analyses are presented in Parts I and II of the book. In Part I, the argumentative process is examined through the lens of the ideal model of critical discussion, a cornerstone of pragma-dialectics. This part showcases how the two parties navigate through the four stages of a critical discussion, delving into a multitude of questions that extend beyond the central question of God's existence. It highlights the diverse range of inquiries raised, some of which remain unresolved, while others give rise to sub-discussions or meta-dialogues.

In Part II, the theoretical framework of argument dialectic is employed to analyze the argumentative exchange. By identifying argument structures through punctuation marks, argumentative connectors, and operators, the book reveals the collaborative construction of a macro-argument. This macro-argument represents a joint product of the arguers and a complex structure that encapsulates the dialectical relationships between the individual arguments combined within it.

The book concludes by addressing the complementarity of the two approaches, emphasizing that it represents an exercise in adversarial collaboration. By presenting a balanced and comprehensive analysis of the debate between Russell and Copleston, this volume offers valuable insights into the philosophical and theological complexities surrounding the existence of God. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of this intellectual dialogue.

Weight: 741g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030853709
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022