Argumentation: The Study of Effective Reasoning is the latest college course I have completed via audio CDs created by The Teaching Company. The course answers the questions, “How can we find the truth and resolve conflict with rational argument?” and “How can we persuade others?”

Although it sounds like a quarrelsome course, it is actually a study in effective communication. It is only American English that has put a negative connotation on the word argue… its original meaning is simply “to discuss for purposes of reaching the truth.” There is nothing negative in that – in fact, the pursuit of effective argumentation can be seen as a noble cause. Sweet! I now have justification for my contrary nature. 🙂