Define the Word

A lot of quarrels are two meanings wearing one word. “Fair,” “natural,” “safe,” and “free” can each point at several different tests. Until the test is named, people think they disagree about the facts.

Socrates often began by asking what a key word, such as “piety” or “courage,” means. A definition here is not a dictionary trophy. It is the rule you will actually use.

A usable definition draws a line. It says what counts, what does not, and which borderline case you are willing to argue about next.

The word fair

Two roommates argue about a fair split of rent. One means equal shares. The other means shares matched to income. Both say the other is being unfair, and neither has said which rule is in play.

They do not yet have a factual dispute. They have a word. Naming the two rules would show them whether they are arguing about money, or about which principle they meant to adopt.

Try this today In your next disagreement, ask each side to state the rule behind the key word.