"Argumenta ponderantur, non numerantur" - "The strength of arguments is not among them, but in their weight." Why are these words given in Latin? Because the basic rules of eloquence and argumentation were formulated precisely in those distant ancient times.
If we consider the argumentation in stages, as a kind of algorithm, then it has certain rules and sequence. Logic and evidence base are of great qualitative importance.
Instruction manual
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The first requirement for competent argumentation is the validity of the arguments. If we neglect the truth, then undermines the foundation, the fundamental nature of reasoning. Accordingly, the main principle of evidence, the very existence of a fact and a topic of argumentation are lost. This can be either a deliberate lie or a deliberate concealment of facts, as well as anticipation of events, rumors and speculation.
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The next step - strong arguments need to be given separately. If there are many arguments, and they do not carry strong persuasiveness, they should be put together and presented as one weighty argument. Here, each individual minor fact will be complemented by another. If you try to argue based on trifles that are not interconnected with each other, it is easy to get the principle of “excessive evidence”.
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The third, but not unimportant step, is the attitude towards the opponent. When there is a strong and bright trump card in the form of evidence in your pocket, you should not start with it. First show empathy for the interlocutor, namely, try to achieve his emotional state. Without this simple step, successfully arguing will be difficult. Bright, emotionally charged speech is always more convincing than a colorless statement of facts, even if they are indisputable.
Useful advice
Remember: the strength of the arguments must be evaluated from the point of view of the convinced, that is, put yourself in his place.
You need to anticipate the interlocutor’s reaction to your arguments, and be able to competently defend your position.
