Chapter 9: Arguments of Definition

     Chapter 9 focused on arguments of definition and discussed how terms with many definitions or no clear definition can lead to confusion and dissonance.  For example, the book brings to the mind the controversy over how to define human intelligence.  According to the book, some would define human intelligence as related to performance on IQ and SAT tests.  Others see it as the ability to perform specific practical tasks.  Additionally, there are even those who define human intelligence as a competence in relating to other people.  From this example, it is obvious to see that for many terms there is no simple all-encompassing definition.  The chapter goes over several different topics such as the kinds of definition, how to develop a definitional argument, and the key features of definitional arguments.  Towards the end of the chapter, there is also a guide on how to write an argument of definition.
    An interesting section in chapter 9 is the section on the kinds of definition.  I had never thought that deeply about there being different types of definitions.  I always thought of definitions as those in the Webster's Dicitionary, so it was interesting gain the insight of there being multiple types of definitions.  I thought that the authors did a pretty solid job at describing  the types of definitions and providing meaningful examples.
    This whole discussion of terms having many definitions can actually relate to my musical taste.  I am a fan of techno/electronica music, but not necessarily every sub-genre.  Generally, it is presumed that this kind of music is just created from a bunch of robot noises and does not include any vocals.  This is generally the definition associated with this type of music.  It's not an exact definition, but it's the definition my friends associate with it.  Yes, some genres and sub-genres of electronica music do include music that lies within that definition. For me though, the music I listen to generally has softer sounds and more vocals.  Therefore, my definition of this type of music varies from the definition given by my friends or other people.  This just goes to show how many terms can have a variety of definitions.