In the text block below write your first paragraph. In this paragraph state the issue the author's argument addresses , the author's position on this issue , and the author's reasons in support of this position. Specifically, in this paragraph you want to express the author's argument as clearly, concisely, and fairly as possible, being especially careful to avoid the
straw man fallacy. Do not use this paragraph to attack or defend the author's argument or reasoning. Your aim is only to illustrate that you clearly understand the author's argument.
Second Paragraph:
In this paragraph discuss the author's reasoning. Specifically, your aim in this paragraph is to outline the author's argumentative strategy or method. Do not use this paragraph to attack or defend the author's reasoning. Your aim is only to demonstrate that you understand the author's reasoning.
Third Paragraph:
Recall that an argument is sound if (and only if) its premises are true ( or, at least, highly likely to be true) and the reasoning from the premises to the conclusion is logically correct. Consequently, a decisive criticism of an argument is one which attacks either (1) the truth of (at least) one of the premises, or (2) the logical correctness of the reasoning from the premises to the conclusion. A decisive defense of an argument, on the other hand, is one which defends both (1) the truth of all of the premises, and (2) the logical correctness of the reasoning from from the premises to the conclusion. As you can plainly see, it is an easier task to attack than to defend an argument. In this paragraph ( and subsequent paragraphs, if needed) discuss the author's argument with the aim of showing that it is sound or unsound. If more than one premise is being attacked or defended, discuss each in a separate paragraph.
Fourth Paragraph:
Same as Third Paragraph (if needed). If not needed, go to "Penultimate Paragraph" below.
Fifth Paragraph:
Same as Third Paragraph (if needed). If not needed, go to "Penultimate Paragraph" below.
Sixth Paragraph:
Same as Third Paragraph (if needed).If not needed, go to "Penultimate Paragraph" below.
Seventh Paragraph:
Same as Third Paragraph (if needed). If not needed, go to "Penultimate Paragraph" below.
Penultimate Paragraph:
In this paragraph discuss the underlying assumptions (if any) which the author's argument relies upon.If you are attacking the author's argument focus your attention primarily on those which you do not share. If you are defending the author's argument, offer evidence in support of the truth or acceptability of these assumptions.
Concluding Paragraph:
In this paragraph briefly restate your principal grounds for rejecting (or accepting) the author's argument.
