Argumentation: Understanding and Shaping Arguments

by James A. Herrick

Understanding and Shaping Arguments explores the concepts and principles of clear thinking, critical listening, and careful analysis that active citizens and professionals need to evaluate and make arguments effectively. Professors who use the book have praised its emphasis on real-life argument--the political discourse and the social, professional, and personal contexts where students encounter and make arguments in their own lives. Drawing on classical and contemporary theory and principles, Dr. Herrick explores the structure of arguments; relationships between reasons and conclusions; the criteria of evidence, validity, and definitional clarity; common types of arguments and fallacies; and issues of adapting arguments to audiences.

Genres: Textbooks

283 pages, Textbook Binding

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Steph M · Rating 3 out of 5]

okay so technically i read the 5th edition of this book but that edition isn’t listed on goodreads so!! sorry!! anyway i actually hated this book and i’m so glad to be done with it but i have to give it 3 stars because i actually learned a lot and my man sharkey is an icon

[Laura Carter · Rating 1 out of 5]

I have never been happier to finish a book than I was with this one. And not in a "it was so good I had to read it all in one sitting" way. Not even in a "this was a tough read but I learned a lot and I'm better for reading it, but still glad to be done". No, I am glad to be finished in an "I hated every moment of this book and every chapter I read was excruciating torture. I have had fantasies of burning the book slowly while laughing maniacally and dancing around it basking in the shadows of the flames" type of way.

The last chapter was the only one I felt was beneficial. Everything else was pure torture.

I was required to read this book and do the exercises in my college debate class. If you enjoy this book you are a special kind of person.

[Kirsten · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty good for a book that I had to read for school. Easy to follow and understand.