Evidence support

Definition

Evidence support refers to the use of data, facts, statistics, expert opinions, and other forms of credible information to back up an argument or claim. This support strengthens the argument by providing a solid foundation that makes it more persuasive and convincing to the audience.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Evidence support can come from various sources, including scholarly articles, books, interviews with experts, and reputable websites.
2. Using multiple types of evidence, such as statistics and personal anecdotes, can help create a more compelling argument.
3. The strength of evidence is often judged by its relevance, reliability, and the context in which it is presented.
4. In debate and persuasive writing, failing to provide adequate evidence support can weaken an argument and make it less persuasive to the audience.
5. When extending arguments, it's important to continuously integrate new evidence to maintain credibility and relevance in a changing discussion.

Review Questions

• How does evidence support enhance the effectiveness of an argument?
  • Evidence support enhances an argument's effectiveness by providing concrete backing that substantiates claims made. When arguments are grounded in credible facts and data, they become more persuasive to the audience. This connection between claims and supporting evidence is essential for establishing trust and credibility within the argument.
• In what ways can integrating different forms of evidence support strengthen an extended argument?
  • Integrating various forms of evidence support can significantly strengthen an extended argument by appealing to different aspects of audience understanding. For instance, combining statistical data with real-life examples or expert testimonials creates a multi-faceted argument that resonates on emotional and logical levels. This strategy not only reinforces the original claim but also demonstrates thorough research and consideration of diverse viewpoints.
• Evaluate the impact of weak evidence support on the overall integrity of an argument within a debate setting.
  • Weak evidence support can severely undermine the overall integrity of an argument in a debate setting by causing the audience to question its validity. When arguments lack credible backing or rely on questionable sources, they fail to persuade effectively. This can lead to losing respect from judges or audiences, as opponents are likely to exploit these weaknesses in rebuttals. Thus, ensuring strong and relevant evidence support is crucial for maintaining both authority and persuasiveness throughout a debate.

Related terms

claim: A statement or assertion that expresses a viewpoint or belief, which requires support through evidence to be convincing.

rebuttal: A counter-argument or response aimed at disproving or challenging an opposing claim by providing evidence that refutes it.

credibility: The quality of being trusted and believed in; the reliability of sources used for evidence, which impacts the strength of the argument.