Argumentation: Understanding and Shaping Arguments

by James A. Herrick

Understanding and Shaping Arguments explores the principles of clear thinking, critical listening, and careful analysis that active citizens and professionals need to evaluate and make arguments effectively. Drawing on classical and contemporary theory and principles, the book explores the structure of arguments; the relationships between reasons and conclusions; the criteria of evidence, validity, and definitional clarity; common types of arguments and fallacies; and the issues of adapting arguments to audiences.

Genres: Textbooks

304 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Steph M]

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]

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]

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