Custom Burden of Proof: An Introduction to Argumentation and Guide to Parliamentary Debate

Introduction to fallacies, the Toulmin model, and the basic vocabulary of argumentation: It is important that debaters have a strong background in reasoning. Burden of Proof emphasizes the importance of using test of arguments and analysis of fallacies to attack the opponent’s arguments.

Solid introduction to parliamentary debate: Despite the popularity of parliamentary debate, very few texts address it and provide instruction for it. Burden of Proof provides a solid foundation for the novice, while offering enough depth to interest advanced debaters.

Section on Speech Anxiety: Speech anxiety is common to virtually all debaters. Students new to argumentation and debate may experience higher levels of anxiety than their advanced counterparts. Burden of Proof is one of the few argumentation texts that discuss speaker anxiety.

Chapter on Forensics: Argumentation instructors frequently send their students to observe or compete in forensics tournaments. Burden of Proof provides a chapter that can serve as an introduction for both the observer and first-time competitor.