Why Argument Matters

Lee Siegel

Apr 2022 · Tantor Media Inc · Narrated by Chris Monteiro

About this audiobook

An impassioned case for argument's central role in human life, by one of America's most distinguished cultural critics From Eve's crafty exchange with the serpent, to Martin Luther King's soaring, subtle ultimatums, to the throes of Twitter-argument's drainpipe-the human desire to prevail with words has been not just a moral but an existential compulsion. In this dazzling reformulation of argument, renowned critic Lee Siegel portrays the true art of argument as much deeper and far more embracing than mere quarrel, dispute, or debate. It is the supreme expression of humanity's longing for a better life, born of empathy and of care for the world and those who inhabit it. With wit, passion, and striking insights, Siegel plumbs the emotional and psychological sources of clashing words, weaving through his exploration the untold story of the role argument has played in societies throughout history. Each life, he maintains, is an argument for that particular way of living; every individual style of argument is also a case that is being made for that person's right to argue. Argument is at the heart of the human experience, and language, at its most liberated and expressive, inexorably bends toward argument.

About the author

Lee Siegel is the author of several books, including Are You Serious? and Against the Machine. The recipient of a National Magazine Award, he writes about culture and politics for the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal, among many other publications.

A trained traditional and voice actor who loves to read and perform, Chris Monteiro has lent his voice to television and radio ads, animated films, video games, documentaries, and dozens of audiobooks.