Chapter 8: Attack & Defense and Chapter 9: Language & Style

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to argumentation, including attack and defense strategies, language use, and persuasive techniques.

Attack

To undermine the opponent’s argument by focusing on ideas rather than the person.

Denial

A type of attack that directly states the claim is false.

Counterclaim

Replacing an opponent's claim with your own.

Minimization

Accepting a claim but reducing its overall importance.

Red Herring

Introducing irrelevant information to distract from the main argument.

Attacking Evidence

Finding weaknesses like outdated or biased sources in the evidence.

Warrant

The connection between evidence and claim.

Internal Deficiencies

Weak reasoning or logical fallacies in an argument.

Contradictions

Discrepancies in arguments that reveal weaknesses.

Recontextualizing

Changing the perspective of an argument to alter its interpretation.

Prolepsis

Anticipating attacks before they occur.

Concession

Strategically giving up a weak argument to strengthen overall position.

Reductio ad absurdum

Demonstrating that an argument leads to absurd outcomes.

Turning the Tables

Using an opponent's argument against them.

Dilemmas

Presenting choices that lead to a fail for both options.

Argument a fortiori

If something is true for a smaller case, it must be true for a larger case.

Argument from Residues

Eliminating all other possibilities to identify the one remaining option.

Linguistic Consistency

Using terms consistently throughout an argument.

Persuasive Definitions

Defining terms in a way that supports one’s argument.

Terministic Screens

The ways language shapes perception and reality.

God Terms

Emotionally powerful words that are viewed positively.

Devil Terms

Emotionally charged negative descriptors.

Framing the Situation

How presentation of an issue shapes interpretation.

Dissociation

Redefining a concept to separate its meanings.

Countering Dissociation

Responding to dissociation by shifting focus or indicating irrelevance.

Connotation

The emotional meaning attached to words.

Metaphor

A figure of speech comparing two different things.

Antithesis

Using opposites for contrast in ideas.

Chiasmus

A literary structure in which the order of words is reversed.

Parallel Structure

Using repetition to create rhythm in speech or writing.

Analytic Statement

True by definition, such as 'All bachelors are unmarried'.

Contradictory Statement

False by definition, like 'A square circle'.

Synthetic Statement

Depends on real-world verification, e.g., 'It will rain tomorrow'.

Euphemism

A softer or less direct way of expressing something harsh.

Ambiguity

The presence of two or more possible meanings.

Equivocation

Switching meanings of a term within an argument.

Vagueness

Lack of clarity in expression.

Linguistic Intensity

The strength of emotional language used in expressions.

Writing an Argument

Involves clear structure, logical flow, and strong evidence.

Speaking an Argument

Requires tone, pacing, clarity, and confidence.

Showing an Argument

Incorporates visuals and nonverbal communication.

4-Step Rebuttal

Structure for rebutting an argument: 1. They say, 2. I say, 3. Because, 4. Therefore.

Signposting

Informing the audience about the structure of the argument.

Clash

The opposition of ideas or arguments.

Evidence Quality

The credibility and relevance of the evidence presented.

Organization

The arrangement of arguments for clarity and impact.

Persuasiveness

The ability to convince or influence an audience.

Weakened Argument

An argument that lacks sufficient support or clarity.

Logical Fallacies

Errors in reasoning that undermine the validity of an argument.

Key Idea from Zarefsky

Evidence must be credible, relevant, and sufficient.

Strategies of Attack

Ways to challenge an opponent's argument effectively.

Audience

The group of individuals receiving the argument.

Critique

An evaluation of the merits and faults of an argument.

Defense Strategies

Techniques to protect and strengthen one’s own argument.

Cognitive Dissonance

The mental discomfort from holding conflicting beliefs.

Argument Structure

The framework that supports a logical flow of ideas.

Debate Strategy

Techniques designed to enhance performance in argument or debate.

Counterstatement

Responding directly to an opponent's assertions.

Statement of Purpose

The goal or intention behind presenting an argument.

Testable Parts of an Attack

Components of an argument that can be critically evaluated.

Manipulation in Arguments

Using deceptive tactics to alter perception.

Presupposition

An assumption that is taken for granted in an argument.

Implication

Something that is suggested or inferred in a discussion.

Argument Evaluation

The process of assessing the strength of an argument.

Fallacious Reasoning

Invalid reasoning that does not support a conclusion.

Questioning Techniques

Methods of forcing an opponent to clarify or justify their claims.

Contextual Analysis

Examining the circumstances surrounding arguments.

Critical Thinking

The objective analysis and evaluation of an issue.

Persuasive Speech Techniques

Methods to enhance the impact of verbal arguments.

Visual Aids

Supportive material used to enhance argument presentation.

Dissent

Disagreement expressed in context of an argument.

Rebuttal

Counter-argument presented against an opposing viewpoint.

Argument Validity

The degree to which an argument is sound or logical.

Debate Rules

Guidelines that govern conduct during a debate.

Ethos

Credibility or ethical appeal in an argument.

Pathos

Emotional appeal directed at the audience.

Logos

Logical appeal or reasoning in a discussion.

Persuasion Techniques

Methods aimed at influencing attitudes or behaviors.

Argument Clarity

The degree to which an argument is comprehensible.

Situation Framing

Presenting an issue in a manner that shapes understanding.

Language Manipulation

Using language to influence perception and response.

Counterarguments

Arguments made to oppose or refute another argument.

Effective Dialogue

A conversational exchange that fosters understanding.

Debate Preparation

Processes involved in organizing thoughts and strategies ahead of an argument.