Research in Politics - Essay Example

However, according to Toulmin (2003, Pp. 3 – 8), only logically correct and sound argument that is well presented will lead to the right inference and impression. Toulmin (2003, Pp. 8 – 10) goes further to state that a sound argument and a well-grounded and firmly backed claim should be able to stand against criticism, one for which a case can be presented coming up to the standard required if it is to deserve a favourable consideration. Thus, it makes sense for political scientists and other intellectuals to know how to present sound arguments and to examine rigorously the soundness of arguments that interest them.

Baggini and Fosl (2010, Pp. 1 – 58) present a discussion about the basic tools for argument, including deduction, induction, validity and soundness, fallacies, etc., which enable individuals to recognise the worth of an argument and to present sound arguments that appeal to reason. However, although the previously mentioned authors have presented a discussion that introduces readers to the most basic tools or ideas that help with arguments, the term ‘relevance’ merits only a brief mention in the whole reading, even though according to Walton (2004, Chapters 1 and 2), relevance in arguments is of profound significance.

Thus, it is clear that despite the excellent arguments and the logic of the discussion presented by Baggini and Fosl (2010, Pp. 1 – 58), it is possible to examine this discussion more critically. The discussion presented herein is a thorough, but critical, analysis of the ideas presented by Baggini and Fosl (2010, Pp. 1 – 58) in their discussion about arguments, which should appeal to all those with an interest in politics, philosophy, logic and the force in arguments. Baggini and Fosl (2010, Pp. 1 – 5) commence their discussion by emphasising the worth of philosophy and philosophers as being seriously concerned