Discussing the Toulmin Method
The Toulmin method isn't really seen too much online from what I see firsthand. In the age of online communication, however, I can see this method being a driving force in arguments and debates. It can also be a way to analyze posts, and information spread out all across the internet and various forms of media. The Components of the Toulmin method supplies a great approach when it comes down to it. As figure 1 shows, we should use this method to better understand what is presently being stated and identifying the claim being made.
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| Figure 1 |
The Components of the Toulmin Method
The methods of the Toulmin method are identified using 6 main components when analyzing a claim being made. Here are the components at hand, what they do.
Claim- The claim is the argument or fact that is trying to be made.
Grounds- The grounds are what supports the claim.
Warrant- The warrant is the information that is expressed explicitly, or information that is implied.
Backing- The backing is referred to as any of the extra help the warrant needs, in order to make the claim more accurate, or supported.
Qualifier- The qualifier is used to as the possible circumstance that the claim is not true or has an exception.
Rebuttal- Rebuttal is used as a way to show that you know that there is validity in another point of view in the argument, or fact being claimed.
Understanding the components of the Toulmin method is quite vital in regards to any claim that is being made. Whether it is factual or not, it allows us to look at an argument and understand all the pieces of that said argument.
Example of the Toulmin method can be seen in many online situations, and be used to identify a situation. In figure 2.
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| Figure 2 |
When we look at conversation and arguments being made. We can sometimes see an overload of information making it quite difficult to sort it, and the influence of emotions behind the information can make it difficult to see the argument for what it is. Examining these challenges and limitations, we must examine the argument at hand and view what the individual is claiming. Looking beyond certain opinions that motivated by feelings may be a challenge, but determining what is being presented is important and should be analyzed thoughtfully. People are entitled to feel a certain way when making an argument, but it is our jobs when seeing the arguments being portrayed to be mindful of the information and to understand what is warranted as well as backed.
This will lead to more mindful conversation and understanding different viewpoints. This also applies to how we see an over-load in information that is being presented. Sometimes, it is good to break things down into small pieces when analyzing the claim. This engages our critical thinking skills and allows online social communication to flourish.
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