Argument Revisited; Argument Redefined

Book excerpt: In this edited volume, some of the today's leading composition scholars consider the ways in which argumentation as an approach to teaching writing remains valuable, despite the postmodern theories of composition that have challenged its relevance. The contributors first "revisit" and explain the traditional approaches to argument - enthymeme, evidence, Toulmian, Rogerian, and classical rhetoric - and show why they are more relevant today than ever. They then "redefine" argument by connecting it with theoretical movements that have been adverse to it - feminism, narratology, and reflexive reading. As a result, the book unites apparently conflicting approaches in a new definition of argument that emphasizes inquiry over discord and understanding over entrenched difference.