In this famous Monty Python sketch, The Argument Clinic, a man (M) purchases a 5 minute argument. We join the argument in progress and notice that there is a great deal of confusion about the nature of an argument. 

M: I came here for a good argument!
O: AH, no you didn't, you came here for an argument!
M: An argument isn't just contradiction.
O: Well! it CAN be!
M: No it can't!
M: An argument is a connected series of statement intended to establish a proposition.
O: No it isn't!
M: Yes it is! 'tisn't just contradiction.
O: Look, if I *argue* with you, I must take up a contrary position!
M: Yes but it isn't just saying 'no it isn't'.
O: Yes it is!
M: No it isn't!
O: Yes it is!
M: No it isn't!
O: Yes it is!
M: No it ISN'T! Argument is an intellectual process. Contradiction is just the automatic gainsaying of anything the other person says.
O: It is NOT!
M: It is.
O: Not at all!

Keep reading to learn how to sort out what is an argument and how to make a good one. Not like the one above! 

The Basics (Why is argumentative writing important? What is an argument?)

The Parts of an Argument (Claim, Supporting Material, Warrant)

Strong Arguments (What makes a stronger argument?)

Assignment

Prepared by Pam Benoit and Kelly Berg-Nellis to accompany Communication 104: Controversies in Communication.  Suggestions or comments are welcome.  ©Pam Benoit, Professor, University of Missouri.  Last updated 01/26/04