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Article published In: Journal of Argumentation in Context
Vol. 12:3 (2023) ► pp.278–306

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The epistemological orientation of Ottoman argumentation theory and its relation to kalām

Some reflections on Ṭaşköprüzâde, Gelenbevî, and Saçaklızâde

ORCiD logo with link | University of Tübingen
Published online: 15 December 2023
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https://doi.org/10.1075/jaic.22021.inc
Abstract
Islamic (Ottoman) argumentation theories provide strong evidence that the argumentation theory advocated by Ottoman theorists was epistemologically oriented, and has strong parallels with the argumentation theory of kalām (dialectical theology); indeed Ottoman argumentation theory and kalām interacted intensively and influenced each other. This article traces some snapshots of this discourse. In doing so, key concepts of Islamic (Ottoman) argumentation theories are introduced.
Article outline
  • Introduction
  • Syllogistic reasoning
  • The epistemological theory of argumentation and kalām
  • Logic and argumentation theory: The way to Ottoman argumentation theory
  • The munāẓara and its main features
    • Taʿrīf (definition), taqsīm (division), and taṣdīq (confirmation)
    • Manʿ (rejection, refusal), muʿāraḍa (opposition, contradicting someone), naqḍ (contradiction, controversy, inconsistency)
  • Are jadal and munāẓara rhetorical or epistemic?
  • Classifications of premises and propositions
  • Outlook
  • Notes
  • Glossary
  • References
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