Week 2

Argument diagram

Argument map or argument tree. It provides a visual representation of the argument's structure.

Multiple arguments

Arguments with multiple conclusions and chain arguments. e.g.: Rafael was given greater responsibilities at work. Therefore, he deserves a raise, and he should also be given a promotion.

Analyze

Break down into its most elementary parts. Identifying the issue, conclusion, and premise(s).

Chain argument

Chain of reasoning, with some conclusions serving as premises for other conclusions. Contain intermediate conclusion.

Extra claims

Claims that are presented with an argument, but are neither conclusions nor premises. It may provide background information, provide rhetorical flourish, or motivate the argument.

Intermediate conclusions

Claims that do double duty as conclusions and premises. They stand between the initial premises and the ultimate conclusion.

Extended argument

Contains several subarguments

Implied claim

Non-claims, used rhetorically in arguments. i.e.: Don't move. You are about to step right on a rattlesnake.

Questions, commands, and phrases

Not a claim, so not a part of argument.

Argument

Set of claims that offers reasons as evidence for the truth of one of its claims

Conclusion indicator

Signals that the claim following it is a conclusion. e.g.: therefore, thus, so, hence, consequently, it follow (that), which goes to show (that)

Premise indicator

Signals that the claim following it is a premise. e.g.: because, given that, since, however, but (at the beginning of a sentence), and (at the beginning of a sentence), for

Formal analyis

States the premise above a line and the conclusion below the line

Premises

The claims offered as evidence. Indicated by the letter *P* (P1, P2). Reason why a claim is trying to be proven.

Conclusion

The claims supported by the evidence. Indicated by the symbol ∴ Claim that is trying to be proven

Subarguments

The intermediate conclusion and the premise that support the chain argument

Issue

What is up for debate or being questioned. The issue is the same regardless of which side of the issue the arguer defends.

Convergent

When premises are independent. e.g.: Cocaine is addictive, and it is illegal. Consequently, you should not use cocaine.

Inference indicators

Words or phrases that reveal the argument's structure. Most valuable tool in argument analysis.