Warrant

Definition

A warrant is the underlying justification or reasoning that connects evidence to a claim in an argument. It helps establish the validity of the argument by explaining why the evidence supports the claim, and it often relies on shared beliefs or assumptions between the speaker and the audience. Understanding warrants is crucial for crafting strong arguments and counterarguments, as well as effectively utilizing ethos, pathos, and logos in persuasive communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Warrants can be explicit or implicit; explicit warrants are clearly stated while implicit ones are often assumed by the audience.
2. A strong warrant is essential for connecting evidence to the claim logically, making it more convincing to the audience.
3. Warrants often reflect cultural values or beliefs that resonate with the audience, enhancing the persuasiveness of an argument.
4. Different types of arguments may require different kinds of warrants; for example, emotional appeals may rely on pathos-based warrants.
5. Understanding and identifying warrants can help speakers anticipate counterarguments and strengthen their overall argumentation.

Review Questions

• How does a warrant function in connecting evidence to a claim in an argument?
  • A warrant functions as the logical link between evidence and a claim by explaining why the evidence is relevant and supportive of the claim. It clarifies how the data presented substantiates the assertion being made. For instance, if a speaker claims that exercise improves mental health, the warrant might explain how studies linking physical activity to reduced anxiety serve as credible evidence supporting that claim.
• Discuss the role of cultural values in shaping effective warrants within persuasive arguments.
  • Cultural values significantly shape effective warrants because they influence what audiences accept as valid reasoning. When speakers align their warrants with the shared beliefs or values of their audience, they enhance their credibility and persuasive power. For example, a speaker advocating for environmental protection might use a warrant rooted in the value of stewardship for future generations, making their argument more compelling to like-minded listeners.
• Evaluate how understanding warrants can improve one's ability to anticipate and address counterarguments in public speaking.
  • Understanding warrants allows speakers to anticipate potential counterarguments by recognizing weaknesses in their own reasoning. By analyzing their warrants critically, speakers can identify assumptions that might not hold for all audience members. This proactive approach enables them to prepare rebuttals or clarify misconceptions, ultimately strengthening their overall argumentation and enhancing their effectiveness as communicators.

Related terms

Claim: A statement or assertion that expresses a position or belief, which is supported by evidence and warrants.

Evidence: Data or information used to support a claim, which can be in the form of statistics, examples, anecdotes, or expert testimony.

Argumentation: The process of constructing a coherent and persuasive argument, which involves making claims, providing evidence, and establishing warrants.