Ateneo - UPO

The course consists of both a theoretical and a practical component. The theoretical component introduces the concepts of valid reasoning and persuasive reasoning, as well as the principal forms of valid reasoning and the main types of errors in reasoning (fallacies). The practical component comprises written and oral exercises designed to develop students' ability to construct arguments in support of a thesis and to critically evaluate both their own arguments and those of others.

1. Andrea Iacona, L'argomentazione, Einaudi, 2021
2.Materials made available during the course

The course aims to provide students with the fundamental knowledge and skills required to identify, analyse, evaluate, and construct arguments in support of a thesis, as well as to identify errors in reasoning and argumentation.

None

Lectures; in class-exercises and structured debate-activities

Students with disabilities, Specific Learning Disorders (DSA), or Special Educational Needs (BES) may request dedicated services and support by contacting the Student Careers and Services Development and Coordination Office and consulting the dedicated page on the University website: https://uniupo.it/it/servizi/servizi-studentidisabili-e-dsa

The assessment consists of two written theoretical and practical tests. The first is an intermediate assessment focusing on the basic concepts covered in the first part of the course. The second, which takes place at the end of the course, consists of writing a short argumentative text. The final grade is calculated as the average of the grades (expressed on a 30-point scale) obtained in the two assessments

1) What is an argument, and why is it important to know how to argue? 2) Identifying an argument.3) Good arguments and persuasive arguments.4) Deductive and inductive arguments. 5) Refutations.6) Fallacies. 7) The evaluation and construction of arguments in a debate.

Basic level: Upon completion of the course, students will be expected to know and understand the fundamental concepts required for the identification, analysis, and evaluation of arguments, and to be able to apply this knowledge to the analysis of texts and speeches.
Advanced level: ability to independently construct arguments in support of positions under debate and to critically evaluate them. .