Policy claim

Definition

A policy claim is a statement that advocates for a specific course of action or change in policies, laws, or practices. This type of claim often addresses issues of societal importance and aims to persuade an audience to support a particular position or action regarding those issues. Policy claims are commonly structured within arguments and are key components in discussions that call for reforms or interventions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Policy claims can be either explicit or implicit, meaning they can clearly state a recommended action or suggest it through implied reasoning.
2. They often rely on a blend of ethical, logical, and emotional appeals to persuade the audience.
3. In Toulmin's model, policy claims typically appear as the primary assertion that needs supporting evidence and justification.
4. Effective policy claims usually address a specific problem and propose practical solutions, highlighting the benefits of taking action.
5. Counterclaims are common in discussions involving policy claims, as opposing viewpoints may challenge the proposed actions or suggest alternatives.

Review Questions

• How does a policy claim differ from other types of claims within argumentation?
  • A policy claim specifically advocates for a course of action or change in existing policies, while other types of claims may assert opinions or beliefs without calling for action. For example, factual claims provide information about reality, whereas value claims express judgments about what is right or wrong. Policy claims are action-oriented and require supporting evidence that justifies the need for change.
• Discuss how warrants play a crucial role in supporting a policy claim within Toulmin's model of argumentation.
  • Warrants are essential because they provide the reasoning that connects the evidence to the policy claim. In Toulmin's model, without a strong warrant, the evidence presented may not effectively justify the call to action stated in the policy claim. A well-structured warrant explains why the proposed action is necessary and beneficial, reinforcing the overall argument and persuading the audience.
• Evaluate the importance of addressing counterclaims when formulating a strong policy claim and its potential impact on persuasive communication.
  • Addressing counterclaims is vital for strengthening a policy claim because it shows that the arguer has considered opposing viewpoints and can effectively refute them. This not only enhances credibility but also demonstrates thorough understanding of the issue at hand. By anticipating counterarguments, an arguer can present more compelling evidence and reasoning to reinforce their stance, making their persuasive communication more robust and convincing to the audience.

Related terms

claim: A statement that asserts a belief or opinion, which can be supported by evidence or reasoning.

warrant: The reasoning or justification that connects the evidence to the claim, explaining why the evidence supports the argument.

backing: Additional support or evidence that strengthens the warrant and reinforces the validity of the argument.