How can you analyze and construct arguments across disciplines?

1 What is an argument?

An argument is a set of statements that attempts to persuade someone of something. The main statement that expresses the claim or conclusion of the argument is called the thesis. The statements that provide support or justification for the thesis are called the premises. An argument can be explicit or implicit, deductive or inductive, valid or invalid, sound or unsound, strong or weak, cogent or fallacious. To analyze an argument, you need to identify its thesis, premises, and logical structure, and evaluate its relevance, validity, soundness, strength, and cogency.

3 How to construct arguments across disciplines?

To construct arguments across disciplines, you need to follow a similar process as analyzing arguments, but in reverse. You need to start with a clear and specific thesis that expresses your claim or position on an issue. Then, you need to provide relevant and sufficient premises that support your thesis with reasons and evidence. You also need to consider possible objections or counterarguments, and address them with rebuttals or concessions. Finally, you need to organize your argument in a logical and coherent way, using appropriate language and style for your discipline and audience.

4 How to use argument maps?

Argument maps are visual tools that can help you analyze and construct arguments across disciplines. Argument maps show the structure and components of an argument, such as the thesis, premises, sub-premises, objections, rebuttals, and conclusions. Argument maps can help you identify the main and subordinate claims, the relations and dependencies between them, and the gaps or flaws in the reasoning. You can use argument maps to clarify your own thinking, evaluate the quality of an argument, or present your argument to others.

5 How to practice argument analysis and construction?

One of the best ways to improve your critical thinking skills and your ability to analyze and construct arguments across disciplines is to practice regularly and systematically. You can practice by finding and reading arguments from different sources, such as books, articles, podcasts, or videos, and applying the principles and strategies discussed in this article. You can also practice by writing or speaking your own arguments on various topics, and seeking feedback from others. You can use argument maps, outlines, or templates to help you structure and organize your arguments.