Understanding Argument in a Post-truth World

Understanding Argument in a Post-Truth World equips readers with modern argumentative strategies that complement the technological and information-rich era in which we live. The text recognizes that individuals today need practical evaluative techniques in order to effectively construct well-informed, critical stances on a variety of issues. 

Within the context of modern American society, readers learn how to sharpen their critical thinking skills, effectively contribute to civil discourse, and sift through the deluge of information available to them via the media, internet, news outlets, and more. 

The book introduces readers to three major argument models—the Toulmin model, the stock issues model, and the narrative paradigm—and demonstrates how to apply them in real-world settings. They study deductive, inductive, and abductive reasoning, the impact of logical fallacies on argument, refutation strategies and pitfalls, and how to assess bias. 

Full of timely and valuable information, Understanding Argument in a Post-Truth World is an ideal textbook for courses in argumentation, civil discourse, and communication and critical thinking.

Heather Walters is a senior instructor of communication and assistant director of debate/forensics at Missouri State University. She earned her master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Missouri State University and her Juris Doctorate from the University of Maryland School of Law. Walters debated for Missouri State and has won numerous national and regional debate awards. Her scholarly interests include argumentation/persuasion, legal communication, and communication theory.

Kristen Stout is an instructor and director of debate/forensics at Crowder College and also teaches courses in argumentation and public speaking at Missouri State University, where she earned her M.A. degree. She is a governing board member of the Speech and Theatre Association of Missouri. Her research interests include argumentation in the digital age, academic debate in the classroom, and the rise of non-traditional news and media outlets.