Seven key characteristics of claims

It is about the important characteristics of a claim.

1. Seven key characteristics of claims By: Christina Carver

2. 1. Claims are Statements Not Questions Questions promote discussion with many view points Claims usually occur because of that discussion

3. 2. Claims are Phrased so Both Sides Have the Same O pportunity to Advocate, Support, and Defend their Positions Have a clear and unbiased claim I ts Language should be appropriate to the goal of the arguer. A Claim should be free from: Loaded, ambiguous, and high intensity language

4. 3. Properly Phrased Claims Should be as Specific as Possible Claims should indicate (to the degree necessary): Why is not needed. Why is explained in the arguments you use to support your stand on the claim. 4. Where 3. When 2. What 1. Who

5. 4. A Claim is Against the Status Quo If Status quo not clearly defined then: Advocate can phrase the claim as he/she likes with the claim becoming the starting point for the argument Status quo = current beliefs, policies, rules, behavior, or institutions. A claim against the status quo creates potential for controversy

6. 5. The Claim should be Phrased so the Burdens are Clear to Both S ides I nvolved in the Debate 1. Burden of Proof Argues in favor of the Claim Comes first Presents an argument of why status quo is inadequate and should be changed for the claim being advocated Pro Side

7. 5. The Claim should be Phrased so the Burdens are Clear to Both S ides I nvolved in the Debate Burden of Presumption Argues against the claim Comes second Presumption that the status quo is desirable and should remain. Defends the s tatus quo by giving reasons as to why it is adequate and should remain Con Side

8. The Pro and Con side must fulfill 3 burdens Burdens shared by both the Pro and Con Side 2. Burden to Make a Prima Facie Case Presenting a reasonable stand for your position The obligation to present proof (logos, pathos, ethos) for what you state 3. Burden of Rebuttal The obligation to respond to the arguments of the other side. In Western Argumentation: Silence = consent It is assumed that you agree with the argument if you are silent

9. 6. T he Pro and Con Side Debate the Same Claim Argue only one claim at a time to maintain a clear argumentative focus Pro side argues for accepting the claim Con side argues that the claim should be rejected If arguing about more than one claim it can: Cause confusion Make the resolution on the claim difficult to reach lead to “Kitchen Sink” fighting

10. 7 . Effective Claims Promote a Pro/Con Argumentative E nvironment There are only two positions that can be argued in an informal or formal argument: 1. Accept the claim being argued or 2. Reject the claim being argued Pro side = promotes acceptance of claim Con side = Rejects acceptance of claim