Preface -- Introduction -- Part I. A conception of argument -- 1. Why do we argue? -- 2. Why argument matters -- 3. Public argument in a democratic society -- Part II. case studies in public argument -- 4. The simple truth thesis -- 5. Pushovers -- 6. Incredulous tones -- 7. The surprising truth about hypocrisy -- 8. Language, spin, and framing -- 9. Argument online -- Conclusion: civility in argument.

"Why We Argue (And How We Should): A Guide to Political Disagreement presents an accessible and engaging introduction to the theory of argument, with special emphasis on the way argument works in public political debate. The authors develop a view according to which proper argument is necessary for ones individual cognitive health; this insight is then expanded to the collective health of ones society. Proper argumentation, then, is seen to play a central role in a well-functioning democracy. Written in a lively style and filled with examples drawn from the real world of contemporary politics, and questions following each chapter to encourage discussion, Why We Argue (And How We Should): A Guide to Political Disagreement reads like a guide for the participation in, and maintenance of, modern democracy. An excellent student resource for courses in critical thinking, political philosophy, and related fields, Why We Argue (And How We Should): A Guide to Political Disagreement is an important contribution to reasoned debate"-- Provided by publisher.