Toulmin Method

By splitting an argument into its essential parts, the Toulmin technique offers a methodical way to assess and react to arguments found online. This technique helps in evaluating the accuracy and logic of claims, pointing out the advantages and disadvantages in reasoning, and developing persuasive answers.

Key components of the Toulmin method:

Claim: The main idea or thesis of the discussion.

Data: The proof offered to back up the claim made.

Warrant: The logic that links the data and the claim.

Backing: Extra proof or justification for the warrant.

Qualifier: A statement that admits the limitations of the claim.

Rebuttal: Considering and reacting to possible objections.

Applying the Toulmin approach to online communication can improve the level of debates, promote critical evaluation of ideas, and encourage thoughtful responses.

Example of online argument where the Toulmin method could strengthen one's position.

• Argument: puppy mills should be banned

The prohibition of puppy mills would help to minimize animal abuse and encourage humane breeding methods (CLAIM). Massive commercial breeding farms that prioritize profit over the welfare of the animals are known as puppy mills, as shown on the website of the HSUS. Dogs suffer and have health issues because they are frequently housed in dirty, cramped environments (DATA). Supporting businesses that put profit ahead of the wellbeing and well-being of living things is not something we should do if we value animal welfare and ethical treatment (WARRANT). Puppy mills have been denounced by organizations including PETA which also promotes ethical breeding methods that put the welfare of animals first (BACKING). Animal welfare should come first, regardless of the claims of some that prohibiting puppy mills could result in decreased employment. Besides, there are humane and profitable alternatives to conventional breeding methods (QUALIFIER). People who are against banning puppy mills often argue that such a move might push these businesses into operating in secret. However, putting in place and ensuring the enforcement of regulations for ethical breeding practices can protect both consumers and the well-being of animals (REBUTTAL).

As we can see, the Toulmin method helps make an argument easier for others to follow, making one's position stronger and more persuasive to the audience.

I'll stick with the puppy mills example to explain the following, but remember, this applies to any other topic too!

Animal welfare is a delicate subject that can generate strong feelings in people, which could result in tense conversations. It might be challenging to introduce fresh viewpoints in online forums due to ingrained opinions on particular subjects. Puppy mills are a topic about which a lot of information is readily available. It's critical to concentrate on reliable sources, such as veterinarians, animal welfare organizations, and respectable news sites.

Critical thinking abilities are needed to analyze the conditions in puppy mills, the effects they have on animals, and the ethical considerations. This entails assessing the available data, identifying biases, and developing coherent arguments. It's important to know where to look for trustworthy sources of information about puppy mills, such studies on the effects of breeding procedures or reports from animal welfare organizations. Knowing how to evaluate a source's reliability guarantees that arguments are supported by reliable information.

Individuals can create strong arguments for and against outlawing puppy mills by using the Toulmin approach. One can participate in intelligent and convincing online discussions by putting out comments that are backed up by data, qualifiers, backing, warrants, and rebuttals. But obstacles like echo chambers, emotional reactions, and information overload need to be properly handled. People can make meaningful contributions to more informed and productive discussions on important topics like animal welfare and humane breeding techniques by developing their critical thinking and information literacy abilities.

Citations:

Toulmin argument. Toulmin Argument - Purdue OWL® - Purdue University. (n.d.). https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/academic_writing/historical_perspectives_on_argumentation/toulmin_argument.html#:~:text=Developed%20by%20philosopher%20Stephen%20E,qualifier%2C%20rebuttal%2C%20and%20backing.

The Toulmin model of argument. EnglishComposition.Org. (2021). https://englishcomposition.org/advanced-writing/the-toulmin-model-of-argument/

Puppy mill research. The Humane Society of the United States. (n.d.). https://www.humanesociety.org/puppy-mill-research

Puppy mills. PETA. (2019). https://www.peta.org/issues/animal-companion-issues/pet-trade/puppy-mills/