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We can use reasoning maps to show how reasons, objections, and rebuttals fit together in relation to some position.
Consider this train of thought:
Maybe I should go to the beach... I'd enjoy myself if I went. On the other hand I'm supposed to be at school today. I really enjoy swimming though...
People often think and talk this way, but the structure of their reasoning isn't very clear when we look at it in written form. The piece of reasoning in the box above is fairly short and simple, but imagine how hard it would be to follow if it were ten times longer!
An argument map makes the structure much more clear:
No matter how long the text was, if we had an argument map we'd be able to see at a glance how each claim fitted into the larger pattern of reasoning.
In sets 2-6 you'll be learning how to show the structure of reasoning using Rationale. We'll build your skills step by step, until you're creating your own maps with confidence.
© Austhink 2013. Rationale Exercises version 0.1, Jan-13
Note: these exercises are undergoing continual improvement. Next time you come back they might be a bit different.
