Abstract

Contemporary argumentation theory or informal logic is the appropriate logical basis of qualitative inquiry. The communicative principles of cooperation and charity are essential within argumentation theory. An optimal observance of these principles, for strategical reasons for example, is of methodological relevance to qualitative research. In addition, an ethically motivated optimalization of the observance may also enhance methodological quality, especially dialogical intersubjectivity or openness. Moreover, this ethically motivated observance may be supported by a philosophy of life, which may stimulate opting for qualitative inquiry and promote its methodological quality.