TFY Ch. 9 Summary- Arguments

Chapter nine is about arguments and what makes a sound one. An argument is a statements or statements with a conclusion and reasons for the conclusion. If one ever reads arguments, and we all do, there are steps to critically reading it. You must read it objectively or hear it objectively and afterwards ask five questions to help you assess the argument. The first question is what viewpoint is the source of the argument. We previously learned that viewpoints can shape the contents of arguments so it is crucial to know the viewpoint of any argument. The second question to ask is what is the issue of controversy or issue at question. The third question is whether the argument is truly an argument or a report. There are distinct differences between the two. A purpose of a report is to offer information and not to advocate an opinion. If there are multiple sides to the report, the author should present all sides. Arguments, however, do advocate an opinion and not supposed to be neutral. The fourth question to ask yourself when trying to assess an argument is to ask yourself how is the argument structured in terms of reasons and conclusions. The chapter has a easy and quick method to do this. You must disassemble it by first identifying the conclusions and separating that statement from the reasons offered to support it. The conclusion in any argument is the last step of the reasoning but it may be stated at the end or anywhere really in the argument. The last question is what are the strengths and weaknesses of the argument. By following these steps, a student can better be prepared when coming across arguments or persuasive pieces in life. One must be a good critical thinker to know when an argument is faulty and contains unsound reasoning.