There are many ways to convince an individual or an entire audience of the correctness of any judgments. All of them are united by the theory of argumentation.
The concept of argumentation consists in bringing verbal arguments and convincing someone, and the reason for arguing may be the motivation for a particular action. Although, it is worth noting that sometimes the technique of argumentation implies not only speech methods. Certain gestures and facial expressions, too, play a role, and sometimes silence can be the strongest argument.
What is included in the structure of the argument:
- thesis (a clear statement of one's opinion and position);
- arguments - certain arguments that help to argue and confirm the correctness of your position;
- demonstration, that is, the process of persuasion, during which you link the arguments to your thesis.
The basic principles of argumentation in a dispute and / or the process of persuasion are the laws of logic, as well as the functions of critical thinking. An important factor is the audience to which your arguments are directed, because effective argumentation implies a dialogue at a certain level, understandable to both sides. All objects of dialogue in this case are considered as a single whole.
There are two types of arguments: "for" (arguments in favor of your position) and "against" (strong arguments proving the inconsistency of the positions criticized by you).
The main methods of argumentation:
- fundamental method. It means acquaintance of the interlocutor with the facts, which are the main of your arguments. As a rule, statistical data and figures are used;
- method of contradiction. It is here often used the type of argument "against", when you identify contradictions in the arguments of the interlocutor. This method of argumentation is often used in disputes;
- The method of comparison is one of the most effective technique of argumentation. Of course, in the event that the comparisons are chosen well. This argumentation affects not only the mind, but also the emotions of the interlocutor. The comparison method allows you to make an opponent's conclusion in favor of your thesis;
- method of partial agreement with the objection. Simply put - it's a speech turn-word "yes ..., but ...", allowing to consider the pros and cons of the opponent's approval. Partly agreeing with his opinion, you reduce the level of primordial aggression to your statement and urge to consider the correctness of your arguments;
In the course of a dispute, you can use a variety of methods of argumentation, choosing those that are most effective at one time or another. However, remember that sometimes a truth is born in a dispute, so be flexible in order not to miss it.