Dialektyka erystyczna jako sztuka unikania rozmówców nieadekwatnych
Eristic dialectic as the art of avoiding inadequate interlocutors

Summary/Abstract: The article aims at an in-depth interpretation of Arthur Schopenhauer’s views on “the eristic controversy,” perceived by the philosopher as definitely the most widespread type of discussion. Upon reading “Eristische Dialektik. Die Kunst Recht zu Behalten”,“Zur Logik und Dialektik” and “Die Welt als Wille und Vorstellung” it is possible to conclude that according to Schopenhauer the dispute should be significant primarily in an epistemological sense, which requires the interlocutors to meet the preconditions regarding knowledge, honesty and reliability. The fundamental principle of the art of discussion is the proper selection of co-discussants and the consistent avoidance of conversations with anyone who is incapable to discuss (as long as it is possible to decide on the choice of an interlocutor). The author indicates that Schopenhauer most likely treated the principle of avoiding inadequate interlocutors as a general directive relating to all types of disputes. This interpretation opens the question of possible applications of this principle in contemporary liberal-democratic discourses.

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