How do you identify is something is an argument or not?
An argument is a connected series of statements and a conclusion that aims to persuade the audience to believe/feel/do something
How do you identify the premises of some argument?
- Look for reasons given to support the conclusion
- Markers: because, since, for, which can be shown/established/proven by the fact
How do you identify the conclusion of some argument?
- Look for the finalization of said argument after reasons are presented
- Markers: so, therefore, thus, hence, accordingly, which shows/establishes/proves/is evidence that
What is a chain argument?
- Simplest map that resembles a chain-like structure
- Ex. Premise leads to conclusion or vice versa
What is an independent argument?
- Starts with a conclusion and is supported by two independent premises
- Ex. Premises both support argument, but can stand alone without each other
What is a co-dependent argument?
- 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
How do you point out which premise an objection is targeting?
An objection will contain material that intentionally and specifically tears down a particular premise
How do you give a counterexample to a claim?
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
How do you refute an argument?
- Show that the premises don’t properly support the conclusion
- Raise doubts about the premise(s)
- Raise doubts about the conclusion
