Assertion is not argument; to contradict the statement of an opponent is not proof that you are correct.
Interpretation
Simply stating an opposing view does not constitute a logical argument or proof of correctness.
This quote by Samuel Johnson emphasizes the importance of reasoned argument over mere assertion. It highlights that simply disagreeing with someone does not validate one's own perspective; true justification lies in providing logical support for one's claims rather than merely contradicting others without evidence or reasoning.
In practice
This quote can be used in a debate to emphasize the need for evidence rather than just contradicting an opponent.
To be of no church is dangerous. Religion, of which the rewards are distant, and which is animated only by faith and hope, will glide by degrees out of the mind unless it be invigorated and reimpressed by external ordinances, by stated calls to worship, and the salutary influence of example.
He that reads and grows no wiser seldom suspects his own deficiency, but complains of hard words and obscure sentences, and asks why books are written which cannot be understood.
To let friendship die away by negligence and silence is certainly not wise. It is voluntarily to throw away one of the greatest comforts of the weary pilgrimage.
Fly-fishing may be a very pleasant amusement; but angling or float fishing I can only compare to a stick and a string, with a worm at one end and a fool at the other.
When any anxiety or gloom of the mind takes hold of you, make it a rule not to publish it by complaining; but exert yourselves to hide it, and by endeavoring to hide it you drive it away.
A fishing rod is a stick with a hook at one end and a fool at the other.
My big fish must be somewhere.
I know of no case where a man added to his dignity by standing on it.
And thou my minde aspire to higher things;_x000D_ _x000D_ Grow rich in that which never taketh rust.
Far more than any other power, imagination is what sets human beings apart from every other species on earth.
Spiritual maturity is not reached by the passing of the years, but by obedience to the will of God.
I found I wasn't asking good enough questions because I assumed I knew something.
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