https://insidethemagic.net/2020/07/oped-song-of-the-south-tm1/
The purpose of this paper is to analyze the rhetor’s argument regarding the artifact (in mine, anger towards a logo change written from the perspective of a consumer). We then explain what Toulmin elements are present and how they impact the argument.
NOTES:
Here are my notes in case anyone needs help sorting through the pdf
Toulmin Notes – Parts of Argumentation
Field Argument: When two or more different arguments possess elements of the same logical type.
Genre of discourse: Must accept the rules and rationality of the field of argument
Theology vs science: Provides insight about The intent, structure, function, and quality of arguments examined
Field Invariant: Elements that exist in any argument no matter what the field.
Elements: (MUST INCLUDE THESE)
Claim = overarching position
Grounds/Data= how does article support position (statistics/facts)
Warrant = reasoning (if/then, cause/effect, others do it so should you generalization, think of it differently deconstruction
Baking: may/may not exist, further data to justify implied claim via specific example
rebuttal: may/may not exist, acknowledging another valid viewpoint
qualifier: may/may not exist, shows claim may not be true in all circumstances “presumably, some, many” statement qualifiers
Elements that vary depending on the field of argument:
Examples of elements:
-Vocabulary
-Meaning
-assumptions
Modal terms
Terms like probably, for uncertain situations
These terms work differently in different fields
Ex:
“Cannot”
Can mean impossible physical action
Can mean the action would be improper
Probably, possibly, may, might, must, and necessarily
Force and criteria
Dimensions of modal terms
Force
Strength of your judgement
Ex: “good” used as a measure of judgement about a product
Criteria
The explicit or implicit reasons for your judgement
Claim
A declarative statement of conclusion
No argument can exist without this
Data
Observations, bits of information, and opinions collected to draw conclusion
Warrant
A statement that connects the data to the claim
A logical bridge that legitimizes or explains a conclusion
Qualifiers
Qualify or limit the applicability of a claim
Makes the claim reasonable
These are where modal terms are used to allow claim to be more reasonable
Rebuttal (aka reservation)
Another way to make claim more reasonable
Statement that confirms or limits the applicability of a warrant
