Critical Reading and Argumentation: Argument Mapping, Argument Form, and Argument Substance

Revision test based on the assigned readings from Jos Hornikx and Jean Wagemans, covering sections 4.3 and 4.4

Single Argumentation

One argument in support of the standpoint.

Multiple Argumentation

At least two arguments are presented to support the standpoint.

Dependent Argumentation

In which multiple arguments are used but each argument is insufficient on their own.

Independent Argumentation

In which multiple arguments are used and each argument can stand on their own.

Serial Argument

In serial argumentation, there are also several arguments, but in this case the main argument is supported by a sub-argument, so the main argument starts to act as a sub-standpoint.

Alpha

a is X because a is Y.

Beta

a is X because b is X.

Gamma

a is X, because b is Y.

Delta

q is A, because q is Z.

For Delta argumentation, what is q and Z?

a is X = q. Proof for increased acceptibility = Z.

Statement of Fact

A description of some state of affairs that can be empirically observed or proposed.

Statement of Value

An evaluative judgment about something based on a definition or evaluation criteria.

Statement of Policy

A statement advocating the performance of an action.

Argument Lever

The implicit and underlying mechanism of argumentation, which expresses how the premise renders the conclusion (more) acceptable.

Examples of Statements of Fact

Empirical Statement, Prediction, Fictitious Statement

Examples of Statements of Value

Aesthetic Statement, Ethical/Moral Statement, Legal Qualification, Principled Statement, Practical Statement, Logical Statement

Examples of Statement of Policy

Advice, Command, Proposal