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MODES OF EXPRESSION analogy argument configuration explanation expressions justification knowledge modes of expression necessary possible probable   Complete Term List

 

Dictionary Definition from Wordnet

1. (23) argument, statement -- (a fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true; "it was a strong argument that his hypothesis was true") 2. (21) controversy, contention, contestation, disputation, disceptation, tilt, argument, arguing -- (a contentious speech act; a dispute where there is strong disagreement; "they were involved in a violent argument") 3. (3) argument, argumentation, debate -- (a discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal; "the argument over foreign aid goes on and on")

 

 

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Working Definition:

An argument is a set of logical or analogical relations among sentences including at a minimum a stated claim or thesis and support for it. To draw the expected inference, the claim must be warranted implicitly or explicitly.

[The claim presents the idea that one is trying to prove. The support is evidence used to persuade the listener to accept the proposed idea. The warrant is assumed knowledge that both sides consent to. To be a successful argument, the support must construct a stable and logical or analogical bridge from the warrants to the claim.]

Disciplinary Definitions:

Toulmin is the foremost authority on arguments. See his The Uses of Argument.

Comments:

 

Notes

To quote the Monty Python sketch an argument is "A connected series of statements to establish a definite proposition."

 

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last revised: June 13, 2007 Send comments to jjs.

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