Mastering Argumentation: Techniques and Strategies
To argue is to provide data, reasons, and examples to prove a fact or defend an opinion, with the intention of persuading the listener. Effective argumentation requires:
- A clear understanding of the idea or issue being defended.
- A structured outline with key data and main arguments.
- Anticipation of potential counterarguments and preparation of convincing responses.
- Presentation with clarity, simplicity, and respect.
Key Features of Argumentation
- Orderly use of syntax and logic, with a predominance of connectors.
- Adaptation of vocabulary to the type of argument.
- Predominance of the present tense and frequent use of verbs of opinion in the first person.
- Presence of personal references in subjective arguments.
- Use of deictic markers, mostly temporal.
Structure of an Argumentative Text
Thesis: The main idea around which the text is organized. It can be:
- Inductive: The author develops the argument to reach the thesis.
- Deductive: The author states the thesis and then supports it with arguments. This is the most common approach.
Argumentative Body: This consists of the arguments or reasons provided by the author to defend the thesis.
Conclusion: Summarizes the ideas arising from the presented arguments.
Common Types of Arguments
- Arguments by Example: Based on concrete facts that support or refute the thesis.
- Factual Arguments: Based on citations, dates, or proven facts that do not depend on the person arguing.
- Arguments from Authority: Rely on the opinion of recognized personalities, using direct or indirect quotations to support the author’s ideas.
- Arguments Based on Experience: Personal arguments that, while not objective, can be effective in persuading the receiver.
- Rebuttal Arguments: Involve the negation of opposing arguments.
- Fallacies: Erroneous arguments used intentionally.
Fields of Argumentation
- Media: Texts in the press and advertising.
- Academic: Proceedings, monographs, some encyclopedias, factual texts, scientific and humanistic works.
- Social: Some legal texts, such as judgments, and certain commercial works.
Language of Argumentation
Lexical Features
- Use of abstract and connotative vocabulary.
- Use of maxims, proverbs, and specific data supported by examples and references.
- Prevalence of verbs of volition (want, need, desire).
- Frequent use of evaluative expressions.
Syntactic Features
- Prevalence of long sentences.
- Frequent use of subordinate clauses.
- Use of impersonal and passive reflective sentences.
- Use of the first and third person.
Textual Features
Discourse markers are used to organize ideas subjectively. These include:
- Connectors
- Oppositional markers
- Causative markers
- Consecutive markers
- Reinforcement markers
Variations of Argumentative Texts
- Subjective Argumentation: The arguer speaks from a subjective viewpoint, referring to personal thoughts, often leading to appreciative, ironic, and informal arguments.
- Scientific Reasoning: In contrast to subjective argumentation, this approach relies on objectivity, documentation, and research.