Thinking method · Toulmin, The Uses of Argument

Take an argument apart

Separating an argument into its working parts so you can see which one is weak. Any argument that matters and sounds convincing.

Free — no account needed to read

Separating an argument into its working parts so you can see which one is weak.

The steps

1. Claim — what is being asserted?
2. Grounds — what facts are offered for it?
3. Warrant — why do those facts support that claim? (Usually unstated. Usually where it breaks.)
4. Backing — what supports the warrant itself?
5. Qualifier — how strongly is it claimed? Always, usually, sometimes?
6. Rebuttal — under what conditions would it not hold?

When to use it

Any argument that matters and sounds convincing.

What it will not do

It shows you the structure. Whether the grounds are true is a separate job.

Where it comes from: Toulmin, The Uses of Argument. Described in our own words.