Understanding Argument in a Post-Truth World

Understanding Argument in a Post-Truth World equips readers with modern argumentative strategies that complement the technological and information-rich era in which we live. The text recognises that individuals today need practical evaluative techniques in order to effectively construct well-informed, critical stances on a variety of issues. Within the context of modern American society, readers learn how to sharpen their critical thinking skills, effectively contribute to civil discourse, and sift through the deluge of information available to them via the media, internet, news outlets, and more. The book introduces readers to three major argument modelsthe Toulmin model, the stock issues model, and the narrative paradigmand demonstrates how to apply them in real-world settings. They study deductive, inductive, and abductive reasoning, the impact of logical fallacies on argument, refutation strategies and pitfalls, and how to assess bias. Full of timely and valuable information, Understanding Argument in a Post-Truth World is an ideal textbook for courses in argumentation, civil discourse, and communication and critical thinking.