Structuring and Analyzing

Arguments:

Toulmin, and Rogerian Models

AP Language and Composition

Modern Approaches to Argument

Toulmin Rogers
 Modern Rhetorical Triangle

Message
(logos)
Rhetorical context

PURPOSE

Writer Audience
(ethos)
(pathos)
 The Toulmin Model

Developed by British philosopher Stephen Toulmin in

the 1950’s

Emphasizes that logic often based on probability rather

than certainty

Focuses on claims

Informal logic: based on probability. Gives good reasons,

persuasive arguments. Does not attempt to prove….

Acknowledges reasonable arguments of both sides

Seven components
 Toulmin Model: Three Components

Claim = statement of the main point or position

Data = the evidence supporting the claim, aka the

reasons

Warrant = an underlying/unstated assumption or basic

principle that connects data and claim; as said
before, perhaps implied rather than explicit
 Toulmin Model: Other
Components
Grounds: provide actual evidence in support of the
reasons.
Examples, statistics, citations, facts

Backing: supports warrant, if needed.

Conditions of Rebuttal: bring up and address counter-

arguments. Attacks grounds and/or the warrant and
backing.

Qualifier: limits a claim. Gets rid of absolutes. Can prove

a claim is faulty if given absolutes like always, never…..can
find exceptions to such broad statements.
Toulmin Argumentation Graphic

Data Claim
Qualifier

Warrant

Backing Rebuttal
 Toulmin Model: An Example
Claim = My parents should allow me to go to my
friend’s party on Friday night.

Data = The parents of nearly all of the seniors at CHS

have given their children permission to attend this
party.

Warrant = My parents should act in accordance with the

other parents of juniors at CHS.
 Uh-oh, a potential snag…
What if my parents don’t “buy” my warrant? What if
they don’t think they should necessarily do what other
parents are doing?

How can I still get permission to attend the party? Or

at least have a better chance of getting permission?
Try new data and a new warrant.
What might be more convincing data for an audience
of parents?

What might be a warrant that most parents will share?

 Rogerian Model
Developed by psychologist Carl Rogers (also in
the ’50s)
Emphasizes problem-solving and/or coming to
consensus
Mutually acceptable solutions to problems
Allows the author to appear open-minded or even
objective
Appropriate in contexts where you need to convince
a resistant opponent to at least respect your views
 Rogerian Model
Seeks common ground

Builds trust

Reduces threat

Avoids confrontation/attack

Gives credit to counterarguments

Rogerian Arguments: Structure
Introduction: statement of problem to be solved or question to
be answered
Summary of Opposing Views: described using a seemingly
objective persona
Statement of Understanding: concedes circumstances under
which opposing views might be valid
Statement of Your Position
Statement of Contexts: describes contexts in which your
position applies/works well
Statement of Benefits: appeals to self-interest of readers who
may not yet agree with you; demonstrates how your position
benefits them