How We Argue: 30 Lessons in Persuasive Communication

This accessible book provides a practical discussion of the main elements of argumentation, illustrated by 30 public arguments from a recent year on social, cultural, and scientific topics. It demonstrates the different considerations that go into composing arguments and the range of strategies that can be chosen as vehicles for our positions, including the use of emotion, evidence, threats, comparisons, and consequences. It is an instructive discussion that illustrates the roles of argument, invention, and evaluation in action and can be used as a supplemental text for courses in argumentation, persuasive communication, critical thinking, composition, and informal logic.

Format: Hardback
Length: 158 pages
Publication date: 10 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Arguing is a crucial aspect of communication in any society, serving as a means to expose, discuss, and modify ideas. The examples presented in this accessible book delve into the complexities of argument composition, encompassing a range of strategies employed to convey one's positions. From the utilization of images to gestures, the examples illustrate how emotion can complement other modes of evidence presentation. They also highlight the persuasive power of threats, comparisons, and consequences. What emerges from this instructive discussion is a clear understanding of the ways in which arguments are constructed, demonstrated, and evaluated in real-life scenarios.

This book is an invaluable resource for individuals interested in argument and public discourse, particularly for those enrolled in courses such as argumentation, persuasive communication, critical thinking, composition, and informal logic. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the main elements of argumentation, providing a practical foundation for developing effective communication skills.

The examples presented in this book are drawn from a recent year, covering a wide variety of social, cultural, and scientific topics. Each example is carefully selected to illustrate the different considerations involved in argument composition and the range of strategies that can be employed. The authors provide insightful commentary on each example, highlighting the key elements that contribute to the effectiveness of an argument.

One of the notable features of this book is its emphasis on the role of emotion in argumentation. The authors recognize that emotion can be a powerful tool in persuasion, and they demonstrate how it can be effectively employed to enhance the impact of one's arguments. They explore the different ways in which emotion can be conveyed, such as through the use of imagery, metaphors, and personal anecdotes, and how it can resonate with audiences to create a sense of connection and understanding.

Another important aspect of this book is its exploration of the different modes of evidence presentation. The authors recognize that evidence can take various forms, including empirical data, logical reasoning, and personal experiences. They discuss the importance of selecting and presenting evidence in a way that is persuasive and credible, and how it can be used to support one's arguments and undermine those of others.

The authors also address the power of threats, comparisons, and consequences in argumentation. They recognize that these tactics can be effective in persuading audiences to adopt a particular position or action. However, they also emphasize the importance of using these tactics responsibly and ethically, ensuring that they are based on sound reasoning and do not rely on misinformation or manipulation.

Throughout the book, the authors provide practical tips and strategies for improving one's argumentation skills. They offer advice on how to structure an argument, how to identify and analyze opposing positions, and how to effectively communicate one's ideas. They also discuss the importance of considering the audience and tailoring one's arguments to their interests and values.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in argument and public discourse. It provides a comprehensive and practical discussion of the main elements of argumentation, illustrated by real-life examples from a wide range of social, cultural, and scientific topics. The authors' insights and strategies for improving argumentation skills are invaluable for individuals seeking to enhance their communication abilities and engage in more informed and effective discussions. Whether you are a student, professional, or simply interested in improving your argumentative skills, this book is a must-read.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032353128