Argumentative Pathologies and Deliberative Legitimation Processes

Author:

• Damien S. Pfister (Univ of Pittsburgh)

Abstract:

This paper extends Patricia Roberts-Miller's work in "Deliberate Conflict" on different styles of argumentation. Drawing from her formulation of public argument as being either agonistic and deliberative, agonistic and expressive, irenic and deliberative, or irenic and expressive, I argue that each of these pairings suggests a unique public mode of argument. Attached to each of these modes is a 'productive' effect and a 'pathological' effect. By briefly exploring recent controversies, I show how this systems-level model of public argument can redirect theorization of publicity and democratic practice.