Theory Practice of Argument Week 05 Reasonable Arguments

Theory & Practice of Argument Week 05: Reasonable Arguments & Reasonable People

Where We Begin • “To label an argument reasonable or unreasonable should reveal more than our own inclinations or biases: the question of an argument’s reasonableness is best resolved using reliable criteria for evaluation. ” (Herrick, p. 75)

Reasonable Arguments & Reasonable People • Appearance of new evidence can challenge widely accepted ideas • What qualities render an argument reasonable?

When We Say “That’s Reasonable” • “That’s reasonable” = “The argument makes sense to me” • “That’s reasonable” = I agree with that argument” • “That’s reasonable” = “I think the quality of the argument is high. ”

Basic Requirements of a Good Argument • 1. advances good reasons • 2. its structure is sound • 3. definitions of clear terms are clear and consistent.

Building Reasonableness • Support: strength and accuracy of the argument’s evidence • Evidence should be accurate and from reliable sources • Drunk Uncle from SNL

Building Reasonableness • Validity: solid internal structure that allows for reliable connections between evidence and conclusions in an argument. • Connective • Evidence • Conclusion

Building Reasonableness • Linguistic Consistency: clarity of its language and its use of terms in the same way throughout the argument. • [maintain the definition throughout the argument]

Reasonable People are marked more by an attitude toward reasoning with others then by their views.

Reasonable People • Being reasonable does not mean avoiding arguments • Both sides must commit to engaging into reasonable arguments

3 Characteristics of Reasonable People 1. willing to provide other people with their reasons, that is, to communicate about how they think. -to reason out loud

3 Characteristics of Reasonable People 2. willing to listen carefully, to consider what other people have to say. - not all arguments are created equal BUT reasonable people are not threatened by the idea of hearing an argument that challenges their own views.

3 Characteristics of Reasonable People 3. willing to search for the best reasons and conclusions available through the interactive process of argumentation. -a reasonable person is open to new ideas and evidence even when they come from an opponent or might require altering a cherished belief.

Five Ways to Respond Arguments • Accept • Consider • Rebut • Refute • Repudiate

Accept • accept as presented • find it persuasive • at least lacking a major flaw

Consider agreement to think about the argument further, to withhold any final judgment.

Rebut • a counter-argument; a reasoned answer that addresses specific points made or evidence advanced in the original argument.

Refute • a thoroughly successful response to an argument, demonstrates a damaging flaw.

Repudiate dismissal of an argument without serious consideration. [snark? ] -silence when answering gives the argument a legitimacy it does not deserve.