Argumentation

Drawing from the study of human reasoning, Argumentation describes different types of arguments and explains how they influence beliefs and behaviour. Raymond Nickerson identifies many of the fallacies, biases, and other flaws often found in arguments as well as 'stratagems' (schemes, illogical and alogical tactics) that people regularly use to persuade others. Much attention is given to the evaluation of arguments. Readers will learn a new schematic for evaluating arguments based on cognitive science. As a source for understanding and evaluating arguments in decision-making, it is ideal for courses on cognition, reasoning, and psychology.

• Describes different types of arguments and facilitates the evaluation of arguments
• Defines arguments as attempts to influence beliefs and behavior
• Illustrates the importance of arguments in daily reasoning and decision-making
• Identifies fallacies, biases, and other reasoning flaws that are commonly found in arguments