Chapter 15: Arguments Introduction 15.1 Constructing arguments 15.2 Formulating arguments 15.3 Evaluating arguments 15.4 Standard arguments

Introduction All research projects require some argumentation Your model is better than previous ones Observations resulted from the variables selected Sample is representative of population

15.1 Constructing arguments Argument: The term refers to reasoning about some aspect of the system or as building block in the reasoning Facts from which conclusions are drawn are known as premises (“uitgangspunt / veronderstelling / gegewe”) of the argument Conclusion of one argument may act as premise for another. Premises are also obtained from facts that are reported elsewhere, from definitions, observations, etc. All premises must be referenced, even if you think that everybody knows it. Definitions describe terms used to ensure no misunderstandings

15.2 Formulating arguments Conjunctions (e.g. thus, therefore, since, because) are used to indicate that you are busy with an argument. Indicate that a conclusion is drawn based on the premises. Also: accordingly, as, as a result, by reason of, consequently, ergo, for this reason, in that, on account of, owing to, so, then, thence, while. Examples play an imported part in arguments Supports arguments Make complex arguments more palatable.

15.3 Evaluating arguments Argument can be criticised by contradicting one of the premises or by showing that the conclusion does not follow from the premises

15.4 Standard arguments Argument 1 Argument 2 Argument 3 The proposed model is simpler than existing models Simplicity is a desirably characteristic of models Thus: The proposed model is better than existing models Argument 2 The experimental variable was different for the experimental and control groups All other variables were the same for the two groups Thus: The observed differences between the groups are because of the experimental variable Argument 3 Some characteristic applies to a significant number of members of a sample. The sample statistically represents some population. Thus: The characteristic applies to a significant number of members of the population