So, what now?
One of the problems facing argumentation and debate teachers and coaches is how to connect the theory of the classroom to real-world situations. There are many ways to approach the problem, but I would like to share one that has worked in my courses at CBU.
I use a text entitled, “The Logic of Real Arguments” by Alec Fisher. What this text does is show how to analyze entire essays to find the fundamental weaknesses in arguments. While the topics range from nuclear deterrance to arguments about God’s existence, a main argument Fisher makes is that you don’t need to be an expert in the field you are analyzing to be able to determine the strength or weakness of a collection of arguments.
The main tool Fisher advocates is the assertibility question, which asks “What would have to be true, for this statement to be true?” You then look to see if those required elements are present, or implied in the text. He shows how to diagram the arguments of an essay to see where the strengths of weaknesses of a collection of arguments lie.
Whatever your relationship to debate, I would recommend this book as great summer read. It’s not a true textbook, and so is available at normal prices from Borders, etc. If you’ve read or used it yourself, I’d appreciate any thoughts.
Did you enjoy this post? Why not leave a comment below and continue the conversation, or subscribe to my feed and get articles like this delivered automatically to your feed reader.
Nice suggestion. I’m a big believer in taking a few months off and enjoying other things in life during the summer =) Come August 1st is a good time to get things back into gear with the new topic.