Blog Post 2 - Chapter 3

In chapter 3, similar to chapter 2 this chapter addresses ways in which we can make arguments that make sense with five different categories that people will typically use to make their arguments grant adherence. The textbook names five ways with which we can make our argument make sense and grant adherence: good reasons, good stories, science, feminist theory, and alternative dispute resolution. All of these ways can be used differently and separately depending on what your argument is about and what type of outcome you want out of your argumentation technique. These different approaches to argumentation each hold a particularity about themselves, I will go deeper into explaining each of these.

The textbook defines good reasons as reasons that are “good enough to warrant adherence to the claim” (37) and if “your arguments are consistent and are not contradictory.” (38) Good reasons are based on personal experiences and things that we have learned as young children. Certain things may seem like good reasons to us because it is what we have always known and been thought, therefore what is thought to be right and “good”. Although a lot of good reasons stem from what we know, there still needs to be structure and credibility to them in order for these reasons to nicely structure an argument.

Secondly, there is the approach of a good story. People can associate themselves with stories, which is often why politicians or public figures will give speeches that include personal stories, it creates a connection with the audience and gives people something to reflect on. Having these narratives is a great way to form a strong argument because people can make connections and relate, like the textbook says “argumentation cast in the form of a narrative is a powerful way to make connections with the appropriate decision makers.” (40)

Also, science can clearly be considered a great way to form a reasonable argument. Scientific facts cannot be refuted, therefore making an argument factually very strong. Part of why science is such a strong aspect to have in an argument is because when scientific evidence is presented in front of the party you are arguing with, it cannot be or can very rarely be contradicted.

Feminist theory is also mentionned in the textbook as part of these five ways in which we can form a very strong argument. Personally, I beleive the feminist theory is a great way to have a great argument with someone. Because feminist theory isn’t based on who wins or loses the argument but rather how people can better educate themselves and step down from this preconceived idea that we need to be equal and rather focus on and “alter[ing] the context in which those ideas take shape.” (46)

Lastly, alternative dispute resolution process of argumentation offers an approach that “encourage[s] constructive debate and direct communication among parties in a dispute. Participants are expected to address issues, concerns and values openly.” (49) The most important reason we use ADR in argumentation is not necessary to reach consensus, although that is often what happens, but to “change the status quo” (50)

To conclude, these five ways of shaping and making an argument reasonable and one that makes sense can be used in different ways and for different types of arguments. Depending on the situation and the message that you are trying to send, one might flow through these techniques and pick a certain one based on the sphere they are in and the end goal of their argument.