Toulmin's Argument Analysis

The Toulmin Model, developed by British Philosopher Stephen Toulmin, is a popular method of analyzing an argument by applying practical reasoning. Toulmin created the model after determining that formal logic was inadequate in explaining common everyday arguments. The Toulmin model asserts that “no argument should pretend to be stronger than it is or apply further than it is meant to. The point [of the Toulmin Model] isn’t to win or beat all the counter-arguments; the point is to come as close to the truth or as close to a realistic and feasible solution as we possibly can,” (2). The Toulmin Model contains six parts: Claim, Grounds, Warrant(s), Backing(s), Qualifier(s), and Rebuttal(s). In using these six components we are able to analyze

Every state, besides Utah, allows some type of gambling, whether it’s scratch tickets at a gas station, blackjack on a riverboat or ponies at the racetrack. I see no difference in betting on a score,” (1). As discussed previously, the Grounds are the things that make the claim work or the evidence used to validate the claim. Stewart’s claims show that gambling already exists and is very prosperous when controlled. It validates her point that sports gambling should be legal by giving examples (evidence) to show that other forms of gambling are readily available and haven’t caused the public any great deal of

She makes a clear Claim, provides Warrants and Grounds for her claim, and uses multiple Backings to support these aspects of her argument. She also points out some of the major rebuttals to sports gambling, and gives reason to believe they are all circumstantial and assuming. As we discussed in class, often times the best strategy when arguing is to play into the emotions. For me personally, this article clearly does that. I spent the greater part of my sophomore year of college gambling on NFL and NBA games on an overseas account. I can’t remember a more exciting and oftentimes enjoyable part of my life. I would bet on numerous NBA games every night and be glued to my computer constantly checking stats, injury reports, and anything available that I thought would give me an edge. There was no greater thrill than beating the line makers. There was also no greater pain than watching your money slip through your fingers at the last second. I vividly remember a Jamal Crawford 30-footer at the buzzer bringing 20 year old me to my knees in tears as the bet $5 to win $175 parlay vanished before my eyes. When the sites became illegal, I was no longer allowed to access my account and I’ve spent the greater part of the past few years angered with our current national policy. For me, Kelly Stewart needed not do any convincing, I