DIsputation is a contention about some questi∣on taken in hand, either for finding out of truth, or else for exercise sake, and there bee foure kindes of disputation, whereof the first is called doctrinall, because it appertay∣neth to Science.
The second is called Dialecticall, which belongeth to proba∣ble opinion.
The third is called Tentatiue, which serueth to trie another mans knowledge, in any kinde of Science.
The fourth is called Sophisticall, which tendeth onely to deceiue.
The Doctrinal Disputation vseth no other but Syllogismes Demonstratiue as this is, whatsoeuer hath reason, is capable of learning; but Iohn hath reason: Ergo, Iohn is capable of lear∣ning. Dialecticall Disputation vseth onely probable Syllo∣gismes, as the former example of Medea, euery mother loueth her child; but Medea is a mother: Ergo, Medea loueth her childe: against this another probable argument may be made thus: whosoeuer killeth her child, loueth not her childe: but Medea killed her child: Ergo, she loued not her child. Tenta∣tiue disputation vseth such arguments as are made of the first common principles of any science, in which principles who so is ignorant, cannot be skilful in that Science; as if a man would professe Geometrie, and know not the definitions of a point, or pricke of a line, or superficies, or of such common Maxims, as these are; the whole is more then his part: take equall from equall, and equall remaine, &c. should quickly bewray his owne ignorance.
Sophisticall disputation vseth nothing but decei•…•…full argu∣ments, or Fallaxes, whereof there be thirteene kindes hereafter set downe: but first I will shew you which be the fiue Markes and Ends of Sophistrie.