The Elements of Reasoning (2nd Edition)

Rating:
Summary: A good introduction.
Review: "The Elements of Reasoning" offers a good introduction to using logic as a basis for making arguments. If you want to improve your skills of debate, or familiarize yourself with Aristotlian rules of rhetoric, this is the book for you. I read it and enjoyed it, although much of it was familiar and a bit obvious. I think even an observant viewer of Sunday morning political shows will be familar with the techniques covered -- inventions, conjectures, definitions, as well as the age old structures of syllogisms and enthymemes. If you are already familiar with such things, no need to read this book.

Rating:
Summary: A must-read for effective writers
Review: In one of the better courses I ever took in college, taught by Eberly, this text provided a solid foundation for understanding the nature of arguments, and how to pose them effectively in public discourses. Eberly is a master at encouraging stimulating conversation in the classroom, and her revisions to Corbett's elite style will cause relief for the student reader. Forming the perfect argument, especially when it is designed for the proto-public space, is a necessary skill, and this text will provide the user with ample guidance in persuasive reasoning.