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(CROWD SOURCING) Chapter IX: Oral Arguments

 "A Rulebook for Arguments" by Anthony Weston

     The first few chapters in A Rulebook for Arguments are generalized and apply to all mediums of argument, and in the later chapters Weston elaborates on specific types of argument, which each employ specific do's and don'ts.  In this particular chapter, he tackles the oral argument. I think this chapter is especially important because it is so relevant to everyday life; that is, everyone at some point will be compelled to argue, and it is important to consider the "rules" and how they can be applied to personal, work, education, or community related arguments.  While written arguments are important, the oral argument is much more commonly employed as everyday practice.

     One of the most important factors in any argument, whether written or oral, is audience. In regards to oral argument, it is crucial to consider the mindset of the audience or "hearers" and to realize that their respect and interest hinges on the words and strategies the speaker chooses. According to Weston, "enthusiasm and energy" are important when trying to establish a successful hearing of the argument. Weston encourages speakers to be respectful, patient, and to NOT demand or expect respect in return.  

     Speakers should also take advantage of the opportunity to establish presence. Presence (eye contact, expression, etc.) is what separates the oral argument from the written, and in order to receive the benefits of presence, such as immediate feedback, speakers must engage and connect with their audience.

     Another benefit of oral communication/argument is that the speaker controls the pace and the tone of the argument, and with that, more repetition and "signposting" become necessary. Summarization throughout is important, as retention of and reception to information is affected when the audience does not have the opportunity to go back and re-read or pause to analyze information. 

     When the argument presents a problem, the speaker should "offer something positive" so that the audience does not become so overwhelmed by the problem itself that they are unable to respond to the proposed solution. This is not to say that the speaker should ignore the negative, but rather offer enough optimism that the audience is not preoccupied with the negative.

     Weston shy's away from the tendency of speakers toward overwhelming the audience with too many visual aids. In excess, visual aids do not "aid" the speaker in making a successful argument - rather, they hinder the opportunity of the speaker to connect with the audience. Weston advocates taking advantage of the unique opportunity of a speaker to present to a live audience, rather than presenting the information in a way that makes the "live" aspect unnecessary (such as reading aloud a long series of slides.)

     Equally important to the beginning and the body of an argument is the ending. Weston encourages the speaker to end punctually and not make a bad impression on the audience by going over the time limit. Additionally, speakers should not fade out but end dramatically and respectfully, with "style."