ABSTRACT

An argument is a conclusion supported by a reason. Normally, the conclusion is something that is controversial (or at least not obvious) before the argument is absorbed. Consequently, some element of the reasonthe part normally called the evidence or the data-should be immediately acceptable. That way, the argument moves from the known to the unknown, or from the taken-for-granted to the doubtful. Arguing is something that can only be done by people. Paragraphs do not argue, and neither do propositions. Arguing is a fundamental human activity, perhaps the primary means of coming to new understandings.