What is argument? Mr. Eble English Adapted from Chapter 1 of The Aims of Argument by Crusius and Channell

Consider… What was the topic of the last argument you had? How did you treat the other person (or people) in the argument? What was the other party’s argument? How did you respond to it? What was the goal of your argument?

What is Argument? Argument is mature reasoning. “Mature” = an attitude and approach to argument, not an age group. “Reasoning” = an opinion plus a reason (or reasons) for holding that opinion, along with evidence as support. Argument doesn’t have to mean that people yell and scream at one another…

What are the qualities of mature arguers? 1. They are well-informed 2 .They are self-critical and open to constructive criticism from others 3. They argue with their audiences / readers in mind 4. They know the context of their arguments, which are all part of ongoing conversations beyond themselves

Why do we argue? To inquire: Using reasoning to determine the best position on an issue. Often, we have to question what we already know instead of defending it in order to reach better, more truth. Goal: To reach some kind of conclusion on an issue. Where we see these today: Informal dialogues and conversations between friends and colleagues Personal journals or other writings where the author seeks truth through questions

Why do we argue? To convince others Offering reasons and support of your opinion More formal than seeking inquiry…a monologue instead of a dialogue. Relies upon careful reasoning and logic. Goal: To win the agreement of people who do not share your opinion or conviction on an issue (or who do not share it fully) Where we see these today: Editorials Courtrooms Political speeches

Why do we argue? To persuade Attempting to influence not just thinking but also behavior. Relies upon more than just careful reasoning: the persona of the writer and the success of the writer in appealing to the audience’s emotions More broadly public of an argument than inquiry Goal: To convince the audience to do something. Where we see these today: EVERYWHERE Advertisements for everything Sermons / Homilies in church Coaches’ motivational speeches / instruction Political Candidates: “Vote for me!”

Why do we argue? To mediate Trying to work out a conflict for the best interest of various parties who cannot agree, and “agreeing to disagree” isn’t a practical solution because a decision has to be made. Requires listening and sound logic, as well as clear presentation of positions and reasons. Goal: To help each side reach consensus or a resolution that all participants find satisfactory. Where we find these: Arguments between family, friends, colleagues who are polarized by differences and can’t agree International conflicts (like the Arab / Israeli conflict, for example) and peace talks