The Art of Argument

I was a little disappointed to discover that the book arrived with the majority of the workbook portion filled out. It really does little good to sell a workbook, even used, if it’s completed. Otherwise the text was as expected.

(This review refers to the updated edition, Version 7.0) Classical Academic Press, rising star in the classical education market, distinguishes itself from other publishers with its smart layout and playful approach to challenging subject matter. The first book in CAP's logic series, The Art of Argument: an introduction to the informal fallacies, incorporates the press' signature wit through the authors' explanations, samples, and selections. For instance, in Lesson 5.4: Irrelevant Thesis, the author cites: "A good example [of a red herring argument] is how President Reagan deftly defused the `age' issue in his election race against Mondale by saying he wasn't going to make an issue of his opponent's youth and inexperience." Yet critical thinking is not presented as merely fun and games. The authors' Christian worldview shines through in the next paragraph, when another example demonstrates how the Red Herring fallacy is used to accuse Christians who oppose abortion. The student workbook--illustrated with more than 60 fictitious (and often ridiculously silly) ads--aims to teach junior high and high school students 28 informal fallacies. As with Latin for Children, another popular CAP title, a quick reference of essential facts is printed inside the front and back covers. Further study helps may be found in a glossary located within the student text. The teacher's materials (sold separately) provide an answer key to the student text, as well as quiz and test masters and keys. [...] In a co-op setting or elsewhere, students can entice others toward critical thinking by performing the short skit titled, "Bill and Ted's Excellent Election." Overall, when used correctly, The Art of Argument can prepare students to recognize political and media manipulation before they've been duped. This world bombards us with persuasive arguments proclaiming what we need, how we should think, and what we should do. But as followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to be "in the world but not of the world"--and we are commanded to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, strength, and mind. (Luke 10:27) Students and teachers who work through these lessons will certainly be equipped to more effectively discern truth and use all their minds.