Warrant

Definition

A warrant is a logical connection that explains why the evidence presented supports the claim made in an argument. It serves as the bridge between the evidence and the claim, allowing the audience to understand how the two relate and why the evidence is valid in supporting the argument. By establishing this connection, a warrant enhances the overall persuasiveness of an argument and ensures that the reasoning is clear and credible.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Warrants are crucial for ensuring that an argument is logically sound and persuasive by clearly linking evidence to claims.
2. Different types of warrants can be used, such as causal warrants, which link causes to effects, or value warrants, which connect evidence to moral beliefs.
3. When constructing an argument, it's important to explicitly state the warrant so that the audience understands how it supports the claim.
4. Weak or missing warrants can lead to logical fallacies, making arguments less convincing and potentially leading to misunderstandings.
5. In effective communication, anticipating counterarguments regarding warrants can help strengthen one's position by addressing potential objections directly.

Review Questions

• How does a warrant enhance the effectiveness of an argument?
  • A warrant enhances the effectiveness of an argument by providing a clear logical connection between the evidence presented and the claim being made. It explains how the evidence supports the claim, making it easier for the audience to follow the reasoning. Without a strong warrant, the argument may seem unconvincing or incomplete, as it lacks a clear justification for why the evidence is relevant.
• Evaluate how different types of warrants can influence the strength of an argument.
  • Different types of warrants can significantly influence an argument's strength by providing various ways to connect evidence and claims. For example, causal warrants establish relationships based on cause and effect, while value warrants link evidence to ethical beliefs. By selecting appropriate types of warrants, an arguer can tailor their approach to resonate more effectively with their audience's values or beliefs, thus enhancing overall persuasion.
• Synthesize how identifying weaknesses in warrants can improve critical thinking in argument analysis.
  • Identifying weaknesses in warrants plays a vital role in improving critical thinking during argument analysis by encouraging deeper scrutiny of how claims are supported. When analyzing arguments, recognizing when a warrant is weak or missing prompts one to question the logic and validity of conclusions drawn. This not only aids in developing stronger arguments but also equips individuals with tools to deconstruct others' reasoning effectively, fostering better debate and discussion skills.

Related terms

Claim: A claim is a statement or assertion that presents a position or argument that one seeks to prove or argue in a discussion.

Evidence: Evidence consists of the facts, data, or information used to support a claim within an argument.

Backing: Backing refers to additional support or reasoning that strengthens a warrant, providing more authority or justification for the connection between evidence and claim.