Argument Analysis, Standardization

STANDARDIZATION

Rewriting an argument as numbered propositions, with indicators removed from content but conclusion indicators added to show structure.

COMPLEX ARGUMENT

one with at least one intermediate conclusion (sub-conclusion) on the way to the ultimate conclusion.

ULTIMATE CONCLUSION

The final proposition the whole argument is ultimately trying to establish, as opposed to any sub-conclusions on the way.

RHETORICAL QUESTION

A question asked not to seek information but to assert a statement; standardize it by converting to that equivalent statement.

SUB-ARGUMENT

A smaller argument, nested inside a complex argument, that establishes one of the main premises or a sub-conclusion.

SIMPLE ARGUMENT

An argument with just one conclusion, regardless of how many premises support it.