Argumentation: Analysis, Evaluation, Presentation (Routledge Communication Series) - Softcover

Van Eemeren, Frans H.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0805839526 ISBN 13: 9780805839524

Publisher: Routledge, 2002

Synopsis

This book concentrates on argumentation as it emerges in ordinary discourse, whether the discourse is institutionalized or strictly informal. Crucial concepts from the theory of argumentation are systematically discussed and explained with the help of examples from real-life discourse and texts. The basic principles are explained that are instrumental in the analysis and evaluation of argumentative discourse. Methodical instruments are offered for identifying differences of opinion, analyzing and evaluating argumentation and presenting arguments in oral and written discourse. In addition, the book provides a great variety of exercises and assignments to improve the students' skill in presenting argumentation.

The authors begin their treatment of argumentation theory at the same juncture where argumentation also starts in practice: The difference of opinion that occasions the evolvement of the argumentation. Each chapter begins with a short summary of the essentials and ends with a number of exercises that students can use to master the material. Argumentation is the first introductory textbook of this kind. It is intended as a general introduction for students who are interested in a proper conduct of argumentative discourse. Suggestions for further reading are made for each topic and several extra assignments are added to the exercises.

Special features:
* A concise and complete treatment of both the theoretical backgrounds and the practice of argumentation analysis and evaluation.
* Crucial concepts from pragmatics (speech act theory, Grice's cooperative principle) presented in a non-technical way; introducing the theory of verbal communication.
* Unique coverage of both oral and written presentation of arguments.
* Exercises and assignments based on real-life texts from a variety of contexts.

About this title

Synopsis

This book treats argumentation as a means of resolving a difference of opinion. Differences of opinion constantly emerge in contacts with other people not only in everyone's private life, but also at work and in all areas of public life. The authors begin their treatment of argumentation theory at the same juncture where argumentation also starts in practice: the difference of opinion that occasions the evolvement of the argumentation. This book teaches step by step the insights that are required to perform the different tasks that have to be carried out well to analyse, evaluate, and present argumentation adequately and to be able to reflect on the problems one may encounter. Each chapter begins with a short summary of the essentials and ends with a number of exercises that students can use to master the material. The book also includes references to other theoretical literature and a detailed index is preceded by a list of the discussion rules, the fallacies, and a series of general references.

Edition details

• Publisher: Routledge
• Publication date: 2002
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0805839526
• ISBN 13: 9780805839524
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 210