Glossary
Argument
A structured case presented to prove a point, consisting of a claim supported by evidence and reasoning.
Example:
In a debate, a student presented a strong argument for why school uniforms should be optional, citing student comfort and self-expression.
Bias
A disproportionate weight in favor of or against an idea or thing, often leading to a prejudiced presentation of information.
Example:
A news report that only interviews people who support one political party might be accused of bias.
Causal Argument
An argument that asserts one event or factor directly leads to or influences another event or outcome.
Example:
The study made a causal argument that increased access to healthy food options in schools leads to improved student concentration.
Claim
The main point or assertion that an arguer is trying to prove or convince the audience to believe.
Example:
The essay's claim was that social media negatively impacts teenagers' mental health.
Counterargument
An opposing viewpoint or objection to the main claim, which an arguer acknowledges and addresses to strengthen their own position.
Example:
While some might present the counterargument that online learning lacks social interaction, proponents emphasize its flexibility and accessibility.
Deductive Argument
A type of argument that starts with a general principle and applies it to a specific case to reach a certain conclusion.
Example:
The detective used a deductive argument, concluding the suspect was guilty because all evidence pointed to someone with their specific alibi, and only the suspect had that alibi.
Emotional Manipulation
The unethical use of emotional appeals to influence an audience's decisions or beliefs, often by exploiting their feelings rather than using logic.
Example:
A salesperson using guilt trips to pressure a customer into buying an unnecessary extended warranty is engaging in emotional manipulation.
Ethos
A rhetorical appeal that establishes the speaker's or writer's credibility, authority, or trustworthiness to persuade an audience.
Example:
A doctor giving health advice uses ethos to gain the audience's trust due to their medical expertise.
Evidence
Facts, data, examples, or expert opinions used to support and validate a claim.
Example:
The scientist presented statistical data as evidence to support her hypothesis about climate change.
Fallacies
Errors in reasoning or flawed logic that undermine the validity and soundness of an argument.
Example:
Assuming that because a celebrity endorses a product, it must be good, is an example of a logical fallacy.
Inductive Argument
A type of argument that begins with specific observations or examples and moves towards a general conclusion.
Example:
After observing several instances of students improving their grades by using flashcards, the teacher formed an inductive argument that flashcards are an effective study tool for all students.
Logos
A rhetorical appeal that uses logic, facts, statistics, and reason to persuade an audience.
Example:
Presenting a detailed budget breakdown to justify a new project relies heavily on logos to convince stakeholders.
Pathos
A rhetorical appeal that evokes emotions in the audience to create a connection or persuade them.
Example:
An advertisement for a charity showing images of suffering children aims to use pathos to encourage donations.
Reasoning
The logical explanation that connects the evidence to the claim, showing how the proof supports the main point.
Example:
The lawyer's reasoning clearly linked the witness testimony to the defendant's motive, making a compelling case.