Module 4: Validity, Logic, Contradictions, Consistency, & Author's Assumptions NOVINS
- 1. RDG 101 – OLA Fall 2013 Dr. Novins
- 2. At this point in the semester, I think you know that I do not just believe in reading the words presented in a text. Readers do so much more than just read! In this module we will look at four different concepts and how they pertain to reading texts: Argument Logic Contradiction & Consistency Author’s Assumptions
- 3. An argument is an attempt to persuade someone of something, by giving reasons for accepting a particular conclusion as evident. So… what does this mean in regards to your reading a text? Why should you have to be concerned about if the author is making a substantial argument? Aren’t all writers supposed to make solid arguments and support these arguments with reasons?
- 4. As you read it is imperative that you try to figure out what main point (or proposition) the author is trying to make. You then need to investigate and examine the text to see if the author has offered you reasons (evidence) as to why we, as the reader, should come to the same conclusion. As the reader, you will need to make a decision regarding the author’s argument: Did the author substantiate their argument or did they contradict their argument with the supporting information presented in the text?
- 5. Logic describes the use of valid reasoning. So… what does this mean in regards to your reading a text? Why should the reader have to worry if the author is being logical? Aren’t writers supposed to figure all of this out for themselves before they write their piece? As a reader what steps do I have to take to ensure that the argument in the text is logical?
- 6. As the reader, you will need to analyze what you are reading. You are no longer allowed to accept what you read as fact. It is up to you do decide if the author has a logical sequence to their argument. You then need to look at each point the author is trying to make. Each point the author makes must lead to his/her next point. As the reader, you will need to make a decision regarding the author’s logic: Did the author use examples or supporting details for their proposition that are coherent and rational? If the author tries to tell you as the reader that everyone who attends college will be doctors and lawyers, then you need to say, “Hey! Wait a sec! That just doesn’t make sense! It doesn’t seem logical! I know tons of people who went to college who have other professions.”
- 7. Contradiction is when one fact presented does not agree with another fact presented. Consistency is when an argument is held together by facts that align with each other. So… what does this mean in regards to your reading a text? Why should you as the reader have to worry if the author contradicts him/herself? Why must I do when reading a text to ensure that the author does not contradict him/herself and remains consistent?
- 8. When a set of propositions cannot all be simultaneously true, we say that the propositions are inconsistent. Here is an example of two inconsistent propositions: Oswald acted alone when he shot Kennedy. Oswald did not act alone when he shot Kennedy. Alone these two sentences may be able to be debated, yet when they are presented together, the reader notes that there is contradiction in the text.
- 9. An assumption is simply an unstated premise of the argument; that is, an integral component of the argument that the author takes for granted and leaves unsaid. So… what does this mean in regards to your reading a text? Why can the author just assume that I know certain information? Isn’t it the author’s job to tell me what they think I should know? Does this occur often in texts?
- 10. In our daily lives we make thousands of assumptions, but they make sense because they have context and we have experience with the way the world works. Think for a moment about the many assumptions required during the simple act of ordering a meal at a restaurant. You assume that: the prices on the menu are correct; the items on the menu are available; the description of the food is reasonably accurate; the waiter will understand what you say when you order; the food will not sicken or kill you; the restaurant will accept your payment, et cetera. When you read, you need to be aware of certain assumptions the author has of you, the reader.
- 11. All arguments require assumptions. An assumption is a point that the author doesn’t even try to prove. Rather than proving the assumption, the author simply assumes it is true – and assumes the reader knows it’s true as well. Remember: An assumption is not a point that the author tries to prove and fails. It’s a point he or she doesn’t even try to prove.
- 12. As you read “Inequality, Race, and Remedy” AND “People Like Us” try think about these concepts we just went over. Think to yourself: What argument is the author making? Is the argument logical? Are there any contradictions or inconsistencies in the argument? What is the author assume that I already know and believe?