Are arguments abstract objects?

Geoff Goddu\u27s 2010 paper Is \u27Argument\u27 subject to the process/product ambiguity? and Paul Simard-Smith and Andrei Moldovan\u27s 2011 paper “Arguments as abstract objects” have revived the dialogue about what might be called the metaphysics of argument . Both papers are important. Both also seem to me to be open to significant objections. In this paper I will lay out some of these objections and give, in rough outline, the kernel of an alternative approach

CHARACTERISTICS OF FARMLAND LEASING IN THE NORTH CENTRAL UNITED STATES

Leasing behavior differs across the North Central United States. Survey data is used to characterize leasing activity in the region. Data is collected on the amount of leased farmland, amount of cash and share leased land, and common output share levels. Factors influencing leasing and arrangements are also identified.Land Economics/Use,

Commentary on: Fabio Paglieri\u27s Argumentation, decision and rationality

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The Methodological Usefulness of Deep Disagreement

In this paper I begin by examining Fogelin’s account of deep disagreement. My contention is that this account is so deeply flawed as to cast doubt on the possibility that such deep disagreements actually happen. Nevertheless, I contend that the notion of deep disagreement itself is a useful theoretical foil for thinking about argumentation. The second part of this paper makes this case by showing how thinking about deep disagreements from the perspective of rhetoric, Walton-style argumentation theory, computation, and normative pragmatics can all yield insights that are useful no matter what one’s orientation within the study of argument. Thus, I conclude that deep disagreement –even if it were to turn out that there are no real-world occurrences of it to which we can point–is useful for theorists of argumentation. In this wise, deep disagreement poses a theoretical challenge for argumentation theory not unlike that posed by radical skepticism for traditional epistemolog

A Picture Held us Captive: The Later Wittgenstein and Visual Argumentation

The issue of whether or not there are visual arguments has been an issue in informal logic and argumentation theory at least since 1996. In recent years, books, sections of prominent conferences and special journals issues have been devoted to it, thus significantly raising the profile of the debate. In this paper I will attempt to show how the views of the later Wittgenstein, particularly his views on images and the no- tion of “picturing”, can be brought to bear on the question of whether there are such things as “purely visual” arguments. I shall draw on Wittgenstein’s remarks in the Blue and Brown Books and in Philosophical Investigations in order to argue that al- though visual images may occur as elements of argumentation, broadly conceived, it is a mistake to think that there are purely visual arguments, in the sense of illative moves from premises to conclusions that are conveyed by images alone, without the support or framing of words

Beneficial Predators: Syrphid Flies

This fact sheet describes Syrphid flies, a diverse family of insects which can provide both biocontrol and pollination services. While not available for purchase, natural populations can be conserved through wise insecticide use practices and enhancing floral resources. Beneficial insects, including syrphid flies, are a useful tool for home gardeners and commercial agriculturalists alike to keep damaging pest populations to a minimum