Argumentation: Understanding and Shaping Arguments

Argumentation: Understanding and Shaping Arguments explores the principles of clear thinking, critical listening, and careful analysis that active citizens and professionals need to evaluate and make arguments effectively. Drawing on classical and contemporary theory and principles, the book explores the structure of arguments; the relationships between reasons and conclusions; the criteria of evidence, validity, and definitional clarity; common types of arguments and fallacies; and the issues of adapting arguments to audiences.