Basics of Argumentation Theory

general courses

The course is intended to familiarize students with the basics of argumentation theory and critical thinking. During the classes, we will discuss issues related to informal logic, pragmatics, and philosophy of language, focused on practical skills in using argumentation in academic texts and everyday life.

The course is intended to familiarise students with the basics of argumentation theory and critical thinking. The issues will be presented from a logical-philosophical perspective, with emphasis placed on the structure of the argument (premises, conclusion) and practical skills in evaluating its soundness. In addition to topics directly related to argumentation (definition and structure of arguments, criteria for soundness, logical fallacies, counter-argumentation), we will address selected topics in the field of pragmatics and the philosophy of language relevant to the practice of discussion and recognizing manipulation (presuppositions, basics of logic of questions, theory of conversational implicatures). Various approaches to reconstructing arguments will be discussed during the classes, including deductive and non-deductive ones (theory of argumentation schemes). Based on these approaches, different methods for supplementing arguments with missing premises (enthymemes) will be presented. Participants will also become familiar with the most popular argumentative strategies that can be useful in their respective disciplines. Authentic examples of argumentation from current public debates will be analyzed during the classes.

Acquired knowledge:

After completing the course, students are familiar with the structure of arguments, basic strategies and methods of argumentation. They also understand the theoretical-argumentative terminology, including English and Latin terms. The graduate of the course recognizes the embedding of argumentation in language and its influence on human behavior, culture, and social life.

Acquired skills:

After completing the course, students can interpret text by applying the discussed methods and strategies of argumentation. This includes identifying premises, conclusions, and assumptions of arguments, as well as recognizing argumentative fallacies. The graduate of the course can apply the theory of argumentation in practice, correctly justifying and defending their position in writing and in live discussions. They are also prepared to independently identify common argumentative fallacies in public debate.

Acquired social competencies:

After completing the course, students can identify their own discussion skills and recognize argumentative fallacies made by themselves, aiming to correct them independently. They understand the principles of conducting discussions and find possible applications of argumentation theory in professional life and academic practice (such as writing articles, theses, and conference presentations).

The condition for passing the course is regular attendance at classes. Up to two absences are allowed per semester.

The grade will be based on: (1) a one-time homework assignment (20%); (2) active participation during classes (20%); and (3) a written exam (60%).

The homework assignment will involve finding an authentic example of argumentation of a given type in media debates.

The written exam will consist of tasks requiring the practical application of knowledge acquired during the classes.