This document outlines the objectives of a class on arguments, ethics, and public policy. The class will teach students how to choose effective topics for arguments, identify the components of an argument including the topic, evidence, evaluation, position, and counters, determine the validity and soundness of an argument, explain logical fallacies, and apply argumentation skills to issues in public policy and ethics. The main textbook for the class is a concise introduction to logic by Patrick J. Hurley.

1. Pubpol 580: Values,
Ethics, and Public Policy
ARGUMENTS
topic
evidence
evaluation
position
counters
organization Arguments
What they are, how to make them, and
how to avoid making bad ones
Main source: Hurley, Patrick J. A concise introduction to logic. 5th ed. Belmont, CA:
Wadsworth Publishing, c1997