Defining by Stipulation

Sometimes it is necessary to stipulate a definition in order to fix the meaning of a term. Such a stipulation should be logical and reasonable, and will usually involve sufficient and necessary conditions for establishing the meaning of the term.

However, since stipulated definitions are arbitrary, they should not be used to replace perfectly acceptable definitions unless a clear and rational argument can be made for the stipulated definition. Terms should also not be defined by stipulation using emotional arguments that depend on the positive or negative connotations of a word appealing to prejudice, propaganda, or other strong emotions. It is absolutely necessary that the writer provide an adequate rational argument for the stipulated definition (Barnet and Bedau 53-5).

Works Cited

Barnet, Sylvan and Hugo Bedau. Critical Thinking, Reading, and Writing: A Brief Guide to Argument. 3rd ed. Boston: Bedford St. Martins, 1999.

McLaughlin, Terence. "Dirt." Thinking in Writing. Ed. Donald McQuade and Robert Atwan. 2nd ed. New York: Knopf, 1983. 14-15.

ENGL1010 Composition I