Elements of Argumentation

• Argument as a communicative process involves claims, reasons, and evidence
• People engage in arguments to clarify thinking, explain beliefs, problem-solve, and for enjoyment
• Differentiate between oral and written arguments considering factors like memory and physicality
• Define and distinguish between claims, reasons, support, and warrants
• Argumentation is a social process where two or more individuals respond to each other's claims and support
• Arguments aim to gain adherence from an audience
• Argument is an art with techniques and general principles
• Argument involves contested issues and persuasion as a central goal
• Argument fills much of our lives, dominating decision-making processes
• Four main reasons why people argue:

  • To clarify thinking as individuals or groups
  • To explain or defend actions or beliefs
  • To solve problems or make judgments
  • To have fun and engage in intellectually stimulating processes
• Oral arguments differ from written arguments in terms of memory and physicality
• Memory:

  • Written arguments can be referenced repeatedly
  • Oral arguments are understood in fragments due to immediate disappearance of exact phrasing
• Physicality:

  • Oral arguments involve nonverbal communication like pitch, rate, gesture, and tone of voice
  • Written arguments are generally clearer and avoid misunderstandings from nonverbal cues
• Four general components of arguments:

  • Claims: statements about what is true or good
  • Reasons: statements that support a claim
  • Support: substantiates reasons with evidence
  • Warrants: inferences or assumptions connecting support to the claim
• Example:

  Claim: "Increased access to education is essential for economic development"

  Reason: "Education equips individuals with necessary skills and knowledge for workforce participation, fostering innovation and productivity"

  Support: Countries with higher literacy rates and better-educated populations tend to experience higher economic growth

  Warrant: Providing increased access to education will likely result in a more skilled and productive workforce, contributing to overall economic growth
• Debaters are judged on their ability to present arguments, refute opposing viewpoints, and persuade the audience.
• Preparation includes researching the topic, developing arguments, practicing delivery, and preparing rebuttals.