Debate & Dialogue: The Essentials of Argumentation - Paperback

by Mariusz Ozminkowski (Author)

This is a brief introduction to argumentation and debate. It is based on the principle that arguments are not only advocacy of certain position, but also a part of dialogue in finding the best answers to the most difficult questions. The book explores methods in developing arguments on the questions of fact, value, and policy. It emphasizes the point that argumentative skill can be practiced best when working on matters related to policymaking: in finding practical solutions to practical problems. Also, the book covers types of reasoning, logical fallacies, the evidence, and teaches style and delivery. Each chapter ends with a list of key terms, exercises, and study questions making the book a valuable text for college courses in argumentation and critical thinking.

Author Biography

Mariusz Ozminkowski studied philosophy at Warsaw University, communication at California State University Los Angeles, and political science at Claremont Graduate University. He has taught various courses in all three disciplines at California State Polytechnic University Pomona, Pasadena City College, and other state and private colleges for more than 20 years. He is a former Los Angeles correspondent for the largest daily in Poland Gazeta Wyborcza. He has published four other books and hundreds of articles. His most recent publication is Of Chances and Choices, a memoir from communist Poland.