Definition

Explication of a label in terms of the concept(s) to which it refers, often erroneously assumed to be a necessary precursor of productive conversation.

Definitions cannot resolve genuine disagreements about facts or worldviews. Demanding definitions before engaging with ideas is a form of Foundationalism — the false belief that meaning must be established before understanding. Real understanding comes through Explanation, not labels.

Connections

• •Often used as a stalling tactic that blocks Criticism and Conjecture
• •A symptom of Foundationalism — the demand for secure starting points
• •Cannot substitute for Explanation — understanding precedes precise definition
• •Related to Essentialism — the false idea that concepts have perfect descriptions
• •Knowledge grows through improving explanations, not perfecting definitions