TFY-Chapter 9

Chapter 9: Argument

1. Argument is an active endeavor that requires involvement, interaction with questions, and evaluation.

2. The analysis of arguments in terms of their reasons and conclusions applies to both inductive and deductive arguments. Reasons include data, evidence, while conclusions include hypotheses.

3. The questions asked in the critical reading of arguments are:

1) What viewpoint is the source of this argument?

2) What is the issue of controversy?

3) Is it an argument or a report?

4) What are the argument’s strengths and weaknesses?

4. Reasons Support conclusions. They may be generalizations that could function as conclusion in another context.

5. The conclusion is the last step in a reasoning process. Although, it may stated at any time during an argument.

6. The analysis of arguments in terms of their reasons and conclusions applies to both inductive and deductive arguments. Reasons include data, evidence, while conclusions include hypotheses.

7. Questions guidelines for analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of arguments:

• Are the reasons adequate to support the conclusion?
• Are there any hidden assumptions?
• Are any central words ambiguous or slanted so as to incite prejudice?
• Are there fallacies of reasoning?
• Is any important information missing?
  

8. An issue is a selected aspect of topic of controversy upon which positions may be taken either pro or con. Issues are stated in neutral terms often beginning with the word should and ending with a question.