Seven types of argument

Balderdash practice: General

Let's practice writing some Balderdash-style questions using the 3 new argument types we've covered.

Do you remember last time we did this, we talked about the difference between arguing about specific situations vs general trends?

Here's an example of asking values-based questions about a specific situation:

Firefighter in fire fighting operation

ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC SITUATION

Valuational: Is Rufus a good dog?

Proposal: How should we look after Rufus while his owner, Norma, recovers in hospital from smoke inhalation?

Ethical: Is it right to keep Rufus and Norma separate when they love each other so much?

Writelike

Now let's imagine this image represents a general trend rather than a specific situation.

Here are some examples of "general trends" that this image might suggest:

  • Pets lighting fires
  • Fire departments using animal firefighters
  • Angry neighbours burning down houses as a way to get back at noisy/cranky pets

And here are some "general trend" questions based on our 3 argument types:

ABOUT THIS GENERAL TREND

Valuational: Can trained animals be effective firefighters?

Proposal: Should we create a new type of civic award for pets who perform acts of heroism?

Ethical: Is it right to put animal arsonists in human prisons?

Writelike

Here's a different image and some specific vs general questions:

Wizard's Duel A whimsical scene in a cobblestone street where two wizards

ABOUT THIS SPECIFIC SITUATION

Valuational: Who is the better fighter?

Proposal: How do we prevent these guys from damaging buildings in the town square?

Ethical: Is it right to enjoy watching an ice giant beat up an old wizard, even if he's mean?

Writelike

ABOUT THIS GENERAL TREND

Valuational: Are magical fights more or less entertaining than normal combat sports?

Proposal: How do we balance opponents in magical fighting matches?

Ethical: Is it okay for these fights to be to the death if both contestants agree?

Writelike

Now you have a go.

A photo of a luxury car showroom with sleek sports cars on display

Write a valuational, a proposal, and an ethical question based on this specific situation.
Write a valuational, a proposal, and an ethical question based on this general trend.
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