Question

In "A Modest Proposal," why does Swift intentionally use false premises as a basis for his arguments?

to signal that he is actually writing a satire
to suggest that his proposal is truly genuine
to lighten a serious topic with playful humor
to prove that he has made some valid points

Answer 1

In "A Modest Proposal," Jonathan Swift intentionally uses false premises as a basis for his arguments primarily **to signal that he is actually writing a satire**. By presenting absurd and outrageous suggestions, such as eating children to solve poverty and overpopulation in Ireland, Swift highlights the extreme measures that might be considered due to the inaction of the English government and the indifference of society to the plight of the poor. His use of false premises serves to critique the prevailing attitudes and policies of his time, ultimately fostering a deeper awareness of social issues rather than genuinely advocating his absurd proposal.