An argument is a reason used to prove the truth of a particular statement. It should contain accurate information to support the claim. Argumentation has its structure; the first is the thesis statement, being the formulation of one’s position, proposal, or opinion. This is followed by evidence aimed at justifying the claim position. Arguments should explain why the interlocutor should believe or agree with another statement. Finally, there is demonstrating the relevance of the thesis with the arguments; at this stage, persuasion is achieved. An example is: Alaska is one of the states of the United States of America. Anne was born in Alaska. Therefore, Anne was born in the United States.
A cogent argument is solid non-deductive reasoning having true premises. It has specific criteria; the first is operating with clear, precise, and simple concepts (Hitchcock, 2017). The second is that the information should be truthful; in case the reliability of the data has not been confirmed, then it is unnecessary to use such details until it has been verified (Hitchcock, 2017). Compelling arguments are always relevant to the subject matter, while all other reasoning should be excluded (Hitchcock, 2017). Cogent statements are always relevant to the interlocutor; they should be correct in relation to the opponent.
All arguments are divided into inductive and deductive; the latter has a logical correctness criterion. This is the reasoning to which the standard of validity or logical correctness can be applied (Hitchcock, 2017). Valid reasoning is argumentation from the correct premises, followed by the proper conclusion (Hitchcock, 2017). Inductively strong arguments contain the inference method based on the development from a particular position to a general one (Hitchcock, 2017). Inductive inference connects certain premises with hypotheses not strictly according to logic but rather through factual, psychological, or mathematical representations (Hitchcock, 2017). There is a greater or lesser likelihood of inference concerning inductive arguments (Hitchcock, 2017). Based on the degree of probability, they can be divided into strong and weak ones (Hitchcock, 2017). The degree to which a statement is reliable or invalid depends on the inference premises’ relevance and reliability.
Critical thinking depends on reconsidering background beliefs and abandoning wrong old views if they turned out to be incorrect. Impartiality is one of the most difficult criteria, as it is difficult to achieve (Hitchcock, 2017). There are various worldviews, suggestions, beliefs, and attitudes in the minds. Different people may have views against various social groups; for example, some have racial biases, others – gender, and some – have class prejudices. The human ego can influence thoughts and actions; to avoid this, people need to ask themselves whether it is the subjective attitude, personal interest in this decision, or rational part of thinking. It is difficult to reach absolute impartiality, but everyone should strive for this.
There is an example of using a rational argument to persuade my parents. A few years ago, I needed a mobile phone because my previous one was malfunctioning. I had to convince my parents by providing compelling reasons. The evidence was that a telephone is, first of all, a necessary means of communication with them. If I had not had a mobile phone, I would not have contacted them in an emergency. Consequently, it can result in a dangerous situation in case of needed help. Moreover, the second one was reminding parents that children my age often face peer pressure. Therefore, a phone call can be a real salvation in such a situation. Besides, this is a good reason for having a phone call with a friend asking for homework. After listing important reasons, my parents agreed to buy me a phone. Thus, proper argumentation can bring positive consequences in daily life.
Reference
Hitchcock, D. (2017). On reasoning and argument. Springer.