(RI.7.8) The Scroll of Evaluating Arguments

The ability to trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, distinguishing claims that are supported by reasons and evidence from claims that are not.

The Scroll of Evaluating Arguments

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How do I evaluate an argument?An argument is a conclusion based upon evidence (i.e. premises). Arguments are commonly found in newspaper editorials and opinion columns, as well as mgazine essays. To evaluate these arguments, you must judge whether it is good or bad. "Good" and "bad" are not, however, merely subjective opinions. An evaluation should be based upon rational criteria, such as the F.E.L.T. criteria below.When you evaluate your essays and columns, you probably won't use everything in this list below. Focusing on one issue or another is usually quite effective, since a long list of criticisms becomes tiresome and difficult to explain thoroughly. Fairness: Is the argument fair and balanced, or does it contain bias? Bias can be detected by asking the following questions:Is the argument overly emotional and filled with loaded language?Is the argument one-sided? Are there alternative points of view not addressed? What are the implications of this narrowness?Evidence and Logic:Are the given premises reliable and relevant? Are they thoroughly explained?Does the author make contradictory points?Does the author make concessions to alternative views without explaining why they are nevertheless subordinate to his/her main view?Do the premises themselves require further justification? (That is, do they beg the question?)Is the movement from premise to conclusion logical? Does the argument contain gaps in reasoning or logical fallacies? (See The Scroll of Logical Fallacies for more information.)Tone:Is the attitude of the writer appropriate for the content? For example, is it too serious? Is it too sarcastic or dismissive? Is it overly dramatic? (Tone can reinforce bias.)