What is Argumentation?

Arguing with Others “A verbal and social activity of reason aimed at increasing (or decreasing) the acceptability of a controversial standpoint for the listener or reader, by putting forward a constellation of propositions (i.e. arguments) intended to justify (or refute) the standpoint before a rational judge” [van Eemeren et al] “the giving of reasons to support or criticize a claim that is questionable, or open to doubt” [Walton]

Argumentation versus Reasoning

If you are the judge, argumentation becomes (nonmonotonic) reasoning.

Process of Argumentation

·         Constructing arguments (in favor of / against a “statement”) from available information.

A: “Tweety is a bird, so it flies”

B: “Tweety is just a cartoon!”