i used to be under the impression that there are only a handful of maxims, but then i did a quick search for the maxims of law. lo and behold! it looks like there is a whole bunch of them, enough for a full weekend of leisurely reading.
the proper order of learning and application of language, according to the teachings of the classical trivium, is as follows:
grammar - logic - rhetoric.
- we have to teach the proper grammar first (thru word origins, dictionaries, especially law dictionaries when dealing in matters of law)
- after the proper grammar has been defined, then comes the logic - a construction of sentences and whole arguments. i believe that the maxims fit into the category of logic.
- only after one has been educated in the grammar and logic, can the practice of rhetoric be applied - presentation of a beautiful argument, based in reality and reason.
if the order or the meanings at any of the stages of the trivium is corrupted, the result is a clown show.