Abstract
ABSTRACTBlaise Pascal's famous wager continues to influence debates over existential risk. This paper analyzes the structure and use of the argument with four goals: first, to establish the wager as a fundamentally rhetorical move, undiminished in force by the various logical objections that have been leveled over time; second, to link it to the rhetorical sublime and a tradition of negative theology; and third, to examine its contemporary use, focusing on debates over nuclear weapons. The purpose of this discussion is not only to recover Pascal's reputation as an expert rhetorician but also to illustrate the potential political benefits and hazards of his wager's modern uses in debates over public policy, alongside possibilities offered by the sublime more generally.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
