A claim is a statement that forms the basis of an argument. There are three types of claims: fact claims about what is/was/will be, value claims about what is good/bad, and policy claims about what should/should not be done. For a claim to be valid, it must be phrased as a statement rather than a question, apply equally to both sides of the argument, be specific, and promote debate about changing or maintaining the status quo. Both sides of a claim have burdens of proof, presumption, and rebuttal.

1. Chapter 9: Understanding Claims By Adriana Cuevas

2. What is a Claim? A claim is always a STATEMENT. “ Any single statement of controversy advanced for the purpose of argument.” (p.136)

3. The Seven Characteristics of a Claim Should be phrased as statements, not questions. Should be phrased equally for both sides. Should be phrased as specific as possible. Claims must be phrased against the status quo.

4. The Seven Characteristics of a Claim Cont. The burdens should be clear to both sides. Both sides should debate the same claim. Should promote a pro/con argumentative environment.

5. There are three types of claims: Fact: Something that is, was or will be. Value: If something is good or bad. Policy: If something should or should not be.

6. The Purpose of a Claim: The foundation of an argument. The focus of the argument. Represents the starting and ending points Has two sides: pro and con Both sides have the responsibilities known as burdens.

7. Types of Burdens: Burden of Proof: Reasons why the status quo must be replaced by the claim being advocated. Burden of Presumption: The defense of the status quo, why it should remain intact. Burden of Rebuttal: The obligation to respond to the argument. failure to respond indicates compliance.

8. Argumentative Burdens Negative Side ● Burden of Presumption: Why things should stay the way they are. ● Burden of Rebuttal: Obligation to respond to the argument. Affirmative Side ● Burden of Proof: Why status quo should be changed. ● Burden of Rebuttal: Obligation to respond to the argument.

9. Types of Debate Environments Scholarly: Emphasizes factual claims. Is meant to discover what is, how and why it is. Religious: Which religion is best. Political: Calls for specific action to be taken to deal with problems in the status quo. Business: What can be done to better the overall well being of the business.

10. Types of Debate Environments Cont. Legal Debate: Whether something is legal or illegal and whether someone is guilty or innocent. Educational: Occur in high schools and colleges. Can be centered around debates of claims of value and/or policy. Social: The least unstructured, deals with personal values.