When it comes to legal proceedings, understanding the different types of arguments can be an invaluable tool. In jurisprudence, an argument is a statement that is intended to persuade someone to accept a certain point of view. Arguments can take many forms and come from many different sources, including from an individual or from experts in a given field.
The Basics of an Argument
At its core, an argument follows a certain structure. It has a claim, which is the statement that is being presented. Then, there is evidence which provides proof to the claim. Finally, the conclusion is the expected outcome from the claim.
Evidence-Based Argument
An argument can be evidence-based, meaning it has evidence to support its claim. In an evidence-based argument, the evidence used should be reliable and verifiable. For example, if the claim is that the minimum wage should be raised, the evidence could include statistics, economic studies, and data on the costs of living.
Philosophical Argument
Philosophical arguments use logical reasoning to draw conclusions. They don’t necessarily need evidence to support their claims but must prove that the logic used is valid and can be applied to other situations. For example, if the claim is that freedom is essential for a fair society, the argument could use logical principles to prove the claim.
What Arguments Can Do
Arguments can be used in a variety of ways, including to persuade, to explain, or to inform. Whether in a legal context or in a more general understanding, arguments can be a powerful tool. They can help us to understand and evaluate issues, and ultimately, to make better decisions.
Conclusion
At its core, an argument is an attempt to persuade someone to accept a certain point of view. It has a claim, evidence to support that claim, and a conclusion. Arguments can be evidence-based or philosophical, and they can be used for persuasive, explanatory, or informational purposes. Having a clear understanding of how arguments work can be an invaluable tool.