Another related criterion of good philosophical writing is precision. Contrary to the conventional wisdom prevalent among students, vague and verbose language is not a sign of profundity and astuteness but of confusion. Teachers of philosophy who are dedicated to the above criteria in effect issue a challenge to students: write grammatically, clearly, and precisely. Since language is the expression of thought, clear language is the expression of clear thought. Writing style should facilitate the comprehension of philosophy. Style should enhance clarity.
(A. P. Martinich, Philosophical Writing: An Introduction, 4th ed. [Malden, MA: Wiley Blackwell, 2016], 4)
Note from KBJ: Not to be picky (because I agree with the sentiment being expressed), but isn't the following inference fallacious?
Since language is the expression of thought, clear language is the expression of clear thought.
Compare:
Since a mouse is an animal (true), a tall mouse is a tall animal (false).
Is this not the fallacy of relative terms?
