The Political Importance of Analogical Argument

Abstract

Is there a form of reasoning somehow specially suited to political philosophy and political life? I contend that for a variety of reasons analogical argument is eminently apt for politics. Although the significance of analogical reasoning for law has been largely recognized, its similar suitability for morality and politics has mostly been ignored, though insights from Hampshire and others point the way. An eventual implication of my argument is that an analogically developed liberal tradition provides rational, non-relativist ‘foundations' for normative claims, as firm as are feasible and necessary. This larger question about the roots of political and moral principles is commented upon throughout, but the main purpose is to establish the nature and legitimacy of analogical reasoning in political argument.