Advocacy and Opposition: An Introduction to Argumentation

by Karyn Charles Rybacki, Donald Jay Rybacki

T9583-0, 0-20529583-5, Rybacki, Karyn C. (Northern Michigan University), Rybacki, Donald J. (Northern Michigan University), ADVOCACY AND An Introduction to Argumentation, Fourth Edition, Previous Edition 0-205-19379-X, 6 x 9, paperbound, 320 pp., $46.00 K, HA17 * / This book is a comprehensive and practical approach to argumentation and critical thinking for the beginner who needs to construct and present arguments on questions of fact, value, and policy both orally and in writing. This book offers a theoretical view of the nature of argument in our society, a discussion of principles of arguing as a form of communication, and a focus on how arguments are created using the Toulmin model of argument. Presents the concepts of stock issues in fact, value, and policy argument. Retains the Toulmin model of argument as the basis for explaining how chains and clusters of arguments are constructed favoring or opposing change. Showcases works of European and American argumentation scholars are showcased to explain how students use factual argumentation in everyday situations to develop and test their knowledge. Includes material on how new technology (CD-ROMs, Online Databases) can be used to streamline research. Incorporates real life examples drawn from public debates in which real people argue real issues. for anyone interested in Argumentation and Debate.

292 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1985

Reviews

[Olivia's Bookish Places & Spaces · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yes, I am that person who reviews textbooks.

Side note: there is nothing wrong with reviewing textbooks because A. they are still books, B. I gave up heartbeats of my life to read them and C. it definitely helps my reading challenge.

Anyways back to the main topic.

This semester I had taken an argumentation class, and this was our primary textbook.

I have always been fascinated by the topic of argumentation. I think everyone should learn the principles of argumentation as they serve one well in both personal and professional life. So, naturally I was excited to take this class.

While I enjoyed the class, I did have some problems with this textbook.

First, it is not exactly written at the most accessible level. The writing is a bit convoluted and can be hard to follow at times. It was also quite dry. I felt that the authors took concepts that should have been straightforward and easy and definitely complicated them. Second, the examples they used were not the most exciting. They literally used geese shit as the topic for the argument in one of the chapters. Whoever thought it was a good idea to make that a topic clearly needs to have their head examined.

What I did like was that they covered a lot of ground and I feel that most of what they mentioned (geese shit aside, of course) was very much relevant to the field of argumentation. While the writing was not the best, they did get their point across and I do feel that I walked away with a much better understanding of argumentation, which is why this book is getting three stars.

If I were a professor, I would have chosen a better written, more engaging textbook, this book does hold its ground and explains what makes one a successful arguer so I would not consider it a waste of time.

[Alyssa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book provided some interesting information, but it was pretty outdated and confusing in some parts. I did appreciate the length of the chapters, though.