Argument Basics

Question 1

How do you identify is something is an argument or not?

Answer 1

An argument is a connected series of statements and a conclusion that aims to persuade the audience to believe/feel/do something

Question 2

How do you identify the premises of some argument?

Answer 2

• Look for reasons given to support the conclusion
• Markers: because, since, for, which can be shown/established/proven by the fact

Question 3

How do you identify the conclusion of some argument?

Answer 3

• Look for the finalization of said argument after reasons are presented
• Markers: so, therefore, thus, hence, accordingly, which shows/establishes/proves/is evidence that

Question 4

What is a chain argument?

Answer 4

• Simplest map that resembles a chain-like structure
• Ex. Premise leads to conclusion or vice versa

Question 5

What is an independent argument?

Answer 5

• Starts with a conclusion and is supported by two independent premises
• Ex. Premises both support argument, but can stand alone without each other

Question 6

What is a co-dependent argument?

Answer 6

• Starts with a conclusion and is supported by two co-dependent premises
• Ex. Premises both support argument, but one can only exist with the other

Question 7

How do you point out which premise an objection is targeting?

Answer 7

An objection will contain material that intentionally and specifically tears down a particular premise

Question 8

How do you give a counterexample to a claim?

Answer 8

Provide evidence of an instance in which the claim would be disproven
- Ex. Giving a scenario of guns being used for safety in an argument trying to ban firearms

Question 9

How do you refute an argument?

Answer 9

• Show that the premises don’t properly support the conclusion
• Raise doubts about the premise(s)
• Raise doubts about the conclusion