Chapter 9: Arguments of Definition

Matching Claims to Definitions -Your subject should show evidence of:

- An example of the defined category - It does not sit inside the category defined - It fulfills certain conditions of the category but not others - needing a new definition because it defies existing categories

Researching Your Topic You can use the following sources to research issues of definition:

- College dictionaries and encyclopedias - Unabridged dictionaries - Specialized reference works and handbooks, such as legal and medical dictionaries - Textbooks by using glossaries - Newsgroups and blogs that focus on particular topics, especially political ones - Community or advocacy groups that are engaged in legal or social issues - Social media postings by respected experts

Finding a Topic Entering an argument of definition includes:

- Creating a controversial definition - Challenging a certain definition - Attempting to determine if something fits its existing definition - Looking to expand an existing definition

Formulating a Claim Create a thesis by asking questions:

- Questions related to genus - Questions related to species - Questions related to conditions - Questions related to fulfillment of conditions - Questions related to membership in a named class

Preparing a Proposal

- Write an outline - Start with a clear thesis - Organize your essay - Get someone to review your essay and check for mistakes

In this chapter you will learn how to:

1. Construct an argument of definition 2. Understand the different types of definition arguments

Definitions by Example

1. Define a group or class by listing the individual members 2. Easier to display similarities in class rather explaining each on in precise detail 3. Arguments usually pinpoint who are what belongs in a list for such category

Formal Definitions

1. Definitions that come straight from the dictionary 2. The definitions put the term in its proper genus and species 3. A genus is the general category and the species is more specific

Kinds of arguments of definition (3 kinds)

1. Formal definitions 2. Operational definitions 3. Definitions by example

Operational Definitions

1. Object is identified by what it does or by what conditions create it. 2. Operational definitions are used in court cases a lot 3. Occurs when people have separate ideas on what the conditions define

Developing a Definitional Argument

1. Often evolve out of daily life 2. So frequent usually not even noticed

Crafting Definitions

1. When presenting an argument of definition, first give the definition 2. Next, explain the definition by critiquing and defending it

Guide to writing an argument of definition...

1.Finding a Topic 2. Researching Your Topic 3.Formulating a Claim 4.Preparing a Proposal

Formulating a claim

Formulate a tentative claim (a declarative statement that represents your first response to a situation

Considering Design and Visuals

Visuals can be useful in presenting your argument of definition Examples: Venn diagram, photographs, charts, graphs