Claim Evidence Warrant Syllogism Critical Thinking
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Since the time of Aristotle, the
categorical syllogism (click here to see a some examples of a syllogism) has been the model we use to diagram the way
we think and argue about controversial issues.
The problem is that the syllogism really does not fit the way we reason. |
| In the 1960s,
philosopher and mathematician Steven Toulmin came up with a different
model for reasoning in an argument. Toulmin's model (above) is more
in line with the way people actually reason.
Persons preparing to make an argument (written or oral) can use Toulmin's model as a guide for structuring the argument. The model can also be used as a guide for challenging and criticizing arguments made by yourself and others. Verbally, the Toulmin model says evidence leads to the claim through the warrant. Elements of the Toulmin ModelClaim: A clear statement of the view the arguer expects to prove. Evidence: The material the arguer gives in support of the claim. Warrant: The connection (sometimes assumed) between the claim and the evidence. It is the reason why the evidence should be taken as support for the claim. |
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