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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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.

5. 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

6. 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