The theory and practice of argumentation and debate

The text offers practical instruction in preparing and presenting oral and written arguments, organizing material into a practice section followed by theoretical principles. It guides readers through selecting and wording debatable propositions, analyzing questions, gathering and recording reliable evidence, and constructing concise briefs. It explains methods for developing persuasive speeches, anticipating and refuting opposing points, and delivering arguments effectively, with attention to psychological persuasion. Exercises and an appendix reinforce techniques, and historical debates are used as illustrative examples to show application of the methods.