The principles of practical reasoning integrated into real world applications is the basic premise behind Professors Richard D. Rieke and Malcom O. Sillars' fourth edition of Argumentation and Critical Decision Making. The most current theories and research are combined with classic rhetoric to effectively explain the necessary functions of decision making in any given situation. With an increased emphasis on critical thinking, Rieke and Sillars help connect critical decisions with audience values and conventions. Real life examples are used to illuminate the principles of argumentation, ranging from interpersonal discussions to formalized conventions of science and law. A new discussion of language and argumentation highlights language practices that have had the most impact on effective argumentation.

The latest edition of Arguments and Arguing contains the same balance of theory and practice, breadth of coverage, current and relevant examples, and accessible writing style that made previous editions so popular in hundreds of classrooms. The authors draw from classic and recent argumentation theory and research, contextualized with well-chosen examples, to showcase a narrative style of argumentation and the values and attitudes of audiences. Readers learn how to employ both formal and informal argumentative strategies in an array of communication forums—from interpersonal interactions to academic debate to politics to business. A newly added chapter on visual argumentation and a striking color photo insert demonstrate the value and power of visual elements in the construction of arguments. The ability to argue is necessary if people are to solve problems, resolve conflicts, and evaluate alternative courses of action. While many are taught that arguing is counterproductive and arguments should be avoided, Hollihan and Baaske illustrate that arguing is an essential and fundamental human activity. Learning the art of effective argumentation entails a grasp of not only the strategies and principles of analysis and logical reasoning but also the importance of arguing in a positive and socially constructive fashion.

Arguing is a fundamental human activity; it is a process of making sense of the world and negotiating understandings with others. Arguing can be—and often is—healthy for both relationships and societies. The values of the community are shaped through people sharing their opinions, offering reasons in support of their beliefs, and deliberating. Hollihan and Baaske present techniques for effective analysis, logical reasoning, and socially constructive argumentation. They illustrate their discussions of theory and practice with multiple engaging examples. The book focuses on narrative—argument as a story backed by evidence to evaluate courses of action or to resolve conflicts. A chapter on visual argumentation highlights the power of visual elements in arguments. Effective arguing requires a sensitivity to the demands of different argumentative contexts. Readers will become familiar with the elements of argument essential for politics, the law, debate, business, and relationships. Narrative arguments are rational arguments. Learning about the narrative reasoning process helps us tell more convincing, credible, and compassionate stories—and to become better critics of the stories we hear.

A much-needed guide to thinking critically for oneself and how to tell a good argument from a bad one. Includes topical examples from politics, sport, medicine, music, chapter summaries, glossary and exercises.

This book clarifies the meaning of the most important and pervasive concepts and tools in bioethical argumentation (principles, values, dignity, rights, duties, deliberation, prudence) and assesses the methodological suitability of the main methods for clinical decision-making and argumentation. The first part of the book is devoted to the most developed or promising approaches regarding bioethical argumentation, namely those based on principles, values and human rights. The authors then continue to deal with the contributions and shortcomings of these approaches and suggest further developments by means of substantive and procedural elements and concepts from practical philosophy, normative systems theory, theory of action, human rights and legal argumentation. Furthermore, new models of biomedical and health care decision-making, which overcome the aforementioned criticism and stress the relevance of the argumentative responsibility, are included.

Shortlisted for the British Book Design and Production Awards 2018, Educational Books category Do you need to demonstrate a good argument or find more evidence? Are you mystified by your tutor′s comment ′critical analysis needed′? What does it really mean to think well - and how do you learn to do it? Critical thinking is a set of techniques. You just need to learn them. So here’s your personal toolkit for demystifying critical engagement. I’ll show you how to sharpen your critical thinking by developing and practicing this set of skills, so you can... Spot an argument and get why reasoning matters Sniff out errors and evaluate evidence Understand and account for bias Become a savvy user of technology Develop clear, confident critical writing. Designed to work seamlessly with a power pack of digital resources and exercises, you′ll find practical and effective tools to think and write critically in an information-saturated age. No matter whether you′re launching on your first degree or arriving as an international or mature student, Critical Thinking gives you the skills, insights and confidence to succeed. In your critical thinking toolkit Watch the 10 commandments videos – life rules to change how you think Smart Study boxes share excellent tips to whip your work into shape BuzzFeed quizzes to test what (you think) you know Space to scribble! Journal your thoughts, questions, eureka moments as you go Chat more online with #TalkCriticalThinking