GHR's online KCard repository

KCard : Arguments

Arguments, right or wrong

Obviously there exist a great number of different types of arguments. The list suggested here is inspired from various readings and personal experiences and isn't meant to be exhaustive. These arguments are mostly of 'logical' type. Many of them can be used either in valid ways or invalid ways (in other words, fallacies) depending on the situation:

When studied closely it can be noted that some of these argumentation patterns are similar to others developed in other disciplines (for example the social proof argument is also part of society rules techniques).

The list below attempts to give explicit enough titles in order to avoid other explanations. These techniques are often named in Latin terms in specialised literature. This is avoided here for pragmatic reasons.

 Assume tradition is right

 Attack person instead of idea

 Correct unless proven otherwise

 Bad argument means bad thing is false

 Call to pity

 Repeat until accepted

 Members proof

 Social proof

 Authority

 Circular argumentation

 Assertion in question

 Assume cause/effect from simultaneity

 Generalisation

 Nature is good

 Facts to value level jumps

 Missing premises to conclusion link

 Circular argumentation

 Assume cause/effect from precedence

 Distraction

 Slippery slope

 Refute extremised argument

 An error each

All this techniques are frequently applied by experienced talkers. Just pay attention to politic debates and you'll soon recognise many. When used properly they are amazingly efficient. Before entering a debate it is worth reviewing the subject and proponents and test how the above list can provide argumentation. This can also help prepare counter argumentation as the list will help you identify the potential arguments your opponents might decide to use.

Ideas to develop