Reading between the lines

In earlier chapters, we looked at explicit features of an argument. However, not all aspects of an argument are expressed explicitly. Arguments are often based on unstated assumptions and latent methods of persuasion. This chapter looks at some of the reasons for this, and provides practice in identifying hidden assumptions and implicit arguments. The premises upon which an argument is based are not always immediately obvious either. These can often contain implicit assumptions or be based on incorrect information. If the premises are not sound, the argument can fall down, no matter how well it is argued. This means that a consideration of the premises of the argument is just as important as a consideration of the reasoning. This chapter also looks briefly at latent messages used to reinforce an argument.