CMST318

Distinguish between discourse that contains reasoning and that which does not.

Distinguish between different types of reasoning.

Analyze arguments, distinguishing premises and conclusions.

Evaluate inductive and deductive reasoning.

Apply basic logical techniques.

Identify and avoid fallacies in reasoning.

Define and apply the concepts of status quo, burden of proof, prima facie case, and burden of rejoinder as they pertain to debating public controversies.

Write central questions expressing controversies around questions of fact, value and policy.

Prepare and debate a policy controversy utilizing the stock issues of ill, blame, cure, and cost.

Judge and critique a classroom debate centering on a policy controversy.