What is motte and bailey argumentation?

The motte and bailey as a form of argumentation is a rather recent phenomenon. It has been used to great effect by some people talking about today's hottest topics. It's important to learn how to identify it and understand how it works.

What is a motte and bailey castle?

What is a motte and bailey castle?
In 2005, Shackel described the reference to medieval castle defense like this: A Motte and Bailey castle is a medieval system of defence in which a stone tower on a mound (the Motte) is surrounded by an area of land (the Bailey) which in turn is encompassed by some sort of a barrier such as a ditch.

What are the characteristics of a Bailey?

The bailey is the desirable place. It is where people want to be. It is large and comfortable and where all the living and working gets done. It is generally flat and open. The problem with the bailey is that it vulnerable. It is hard to defend and susceptible to attack from multiple directions.

What is it like to be on the motte?

What is it like to be on the motte?
The motte is a tall hill so that attackers are exhausted on their way up it, and it has great sight lines, including overlooking the bailey. The building that sits on the motte is the sturdiest, heaviest structure of the castle. It is uncomfortable. No one wants to be on the motte. The motte is used only when the castle is under attack.
"A Motte and Bailey castle is a medieval system of defence in which a stone tower on a mound (the Motte) is surrounded by an area of land (the Bailey) which in turn is encompassed by some sort of a barrier such as a ditch. Being dark and dank, the Motte is not a habitation of choice.

What does it mean to pull a motte and bailey?

In laymen's terms, pulling a Motte and Bailey means: Saying something wildly provocative, and, when criticized, retreating to an obviously true claim and pretending that's what you were saying all along. See below for a pictoral definition and example of a Motte and Bailey in action: