The 3 Approaches to Argument

The 3 Approaches to Argument

1. Classical Approach of Argument

   • Introduction:
     • Capture the attention of your audience.
     • You want them to consider your ideas.
     • Statement of Fact:
       • You need to clarify your issue and give any necessary background knowledge.
       • You also need to define any information.
       • Proposition:
         • You need to state your thesis or proposition.
         • You also need to present subtopics and/or supportive points.
         • Refutation:
           • You need to analyze your opponent's argument.
           • You also need to summarize your opponent's argument and refute or address the points.
           • Substantiation and Proof
             • You need to develop your own case and use Ethos, Pathos, and Logos.
             • You also need to provide good evidence like examples.
             • Conclusion:
               • You need to summarize your most important points.
               • You can also include appeals to feelings or value.

2. Toulmin Approach of Argument

   • Claim:
     • A statement that I ask the other opponent to accept.
     • Most would start with a claim till the find out that its being challenged.
     • Grounds:
       • The data is the basis of persuasion.
       • If the grounds o an argument are challenged they can become a claim.
       • Warrant:
         • Links data and other grounds.
         • Can be based on Ethos, Pathos, Logo, or values.
         • Backing:
           • Gives additional support to the warrant.
           • It does this by asking different questions.
           • Qualifier:
             • The qualifier indicates the strength of a leap from data to the warrant.
             • Qualifiers and reservations are normally used by advertisers.
             • Rebuttal:
               • Even though the construction of the argument was built carefully, there may still be counter arguments.
               • A rebuttal is an argument in itself and can have a claim, warrant, backing, etc.

3. Rogerian Approach of Argument

   • Introduction:
     • You need to objectively define the issue briefly
       • Non-judgement Statement of the Opponent's Position:
         • It is presented within valid contexts.
         • Demonstrates that the writer can clearly understand it.
         • Natural Statement and Explanation:
           • Your position and contexts are valid.
             • Analysis:
               • What the two positions have in common.
               • Also what the two positions of what goal and values they share.
               • Proposal:
                 • Or you can recognize a statement of how the opponent's position would benefit if he/she were to adopt the element's of a writer's position.
                 • Resolving the issue in way that recognizes the interests in both parties.