CHAPTER 4: DEFINITIONS AND INFERENCE

Primary Inference

the main conclusion or claim that an argument is trying to prove.

Case Development (4 steps of analysis)

1) Locate the immediate cause → Why is this issue being argued now?

2) Investigate the history → What is the background/history of the issue?

3) Define key terms and make the primary inference → Clarify important words and determine the main conclusion you are trying to prove.

4) Use stock issues to determine the actual issues → Identify the main questions/points you need to argue in your case.

Immediate Cause

the recent event or situation that made an issue important or brought it to people’s attention.

Topicality

whether an argument actually relates to and fits within the proposition being debated.

(Ways to Define) Synonym

Familiar terms used to help define

(Ways to Define) Authority

defining a term using a definition from a reputable source or expert, especially one recognized in that specific field.

(Ways to Define) Function

defining something by explaining what it does or how it works.

(Ways to Define) Operation

defining something by explaining the specific steps or parts involved in how it will be carried out. It is especially common for defining the proposed change in a policy proposition.

(Rules) Inclusionary Rule

a definition should include everything that properly belongs within the meaning of the term.

(Rules) Exclusionary Rule

a definition should exclude anything that does NOT properly belong within the meaning of the term.

(Rule) Adaptation Rule

definitions should fit the audience and the field/topic being discussed.

(Rule) Neutrality Rule

definitions should use neutral language that does not favor either side of an argument.

(Rule) Clarity Rule

definitions should make a term easier to understand, not more confusing. They should also avoid circular definitions.

(Term) Equivocal Term

a term that has two or more equally correct meanings.

(Term) Vague Term

a term that does not have one clear, precise meaning or has different shades of meaning.

(Term) Technical Term

a specialized word or phrase used within a particular field or profession.

(Term) New term

a word or phrase that has been recently introduced and is not yet part of common vocabulary.

(Term) Coined Term

a term that is invented to describe something when a convenient term does not already exist. It can also combine existing words or describe an idea in a memorable way.

Stock Issues

general questions used to analyze a proposition and identify the specific issues that need to be argued.

Factual Stock Issues

the standard questions used to determine whether a proposition of fact is probably true or false.

• What is the available evidence to prove the argument?

• How do we seek the knowledge?

Policy Stock Issues

the standard questions used to determine whether a proposed change or action should be adopted.

• Reason for change?

• What are the consequences?