The new dialectic
Subtitle: conversational contexts of argument
By: Douglas N. Walton.
Publisher: University of Toronto Press
Published: 1998
Place of publication: Toronto; Buffalo
Language: eng
Number of pages: 304
Subjects: Reasoning.; Logic.; Dialogue.
Description: In this book Douglas Walton proposes a new and practical approach to argument analysis based on his theory that different standards for argument must apply in the case of different types of dialogue.

By refining and extending the existing formal classifications of dialogue, Walton shows that each dialogue type, be it inquiry, negotiation, or critical discussion, has its own set of goals. He goes on to demonstrate that an argument can best be evaluated in terms of its contribution, positive or negative, to the goals of the particular dialogue it is meant to further.

In this way he illustrates how argument can be brought into the service of many types of dialogue, and thus has valuable uses that go well beyond the mere settling of disputes and differences.
Notes: Includes bibliographical references (p. [285]-293) and index.