reply to all three discussion posts each reply needs to be 100 words substantial replies not just agreeing
1. Explain the importance of constructing a logical position or argument for research. Do you feel that one is harder or more complicated than another? Support your position.
I want to start off with defining the word “logical”; a logical position deals with the ability to “reason or capable of reasoning in a clear and consistent manner” (logical definition, n.d.). Have you ever tried having a conversation with someone who is overly emotional? The conversation takes many sharp turns and is on a bit of a roller coaster ride leaving the other person equally exhausted. The emotional position or argument tends to be very illogical and hard to follow; difficult to make a clear point as well. When considering the importance of constructing a logical position or argument, one must rely on facts rather than opinions and emotions. For the sake of the research and the quality of the research, the information must be “black and white” with no blurred lines or grey area.
For me, it depends on the subject matter, there are a wide range of topics where I am able to take a logical stance and some areas where an argument might present difficulties and vice versa. I believe it really depends upon the topic at hand, the amount of available material on the given subject, what I may or may not know already and can apply to my research, and my ability to effectively communicate my point. For example, my background is in supply chain logistics and through my thirteen years of experience, I have covered a lot of ground across three agencies, two federal, one private, and I can shed light on many topic areas as well as dive deeper into my research already having that foundation; however, I have zero experience in the science and medical fields and would not be able to offer my own personal stance on a topic, however, I am sure I can find volumes of information through research.
logical — definition, examples, related words and more at Wordnik. (n.d.). Wordnik.com. https://www.wordnik.com/words/logical
2. This weeks lesson asks us state the importance of constructing a logical position or argument for research. Constructing a logical position or argument are both equally important. A logical position refers to a well structured and well reasoned stance on a particular topic. An argument is taking different set of statements to make a point or support a position. I believe the argument provides for more critical thinking on a subject as you are being objective to what is logical but making a point. Depending on your audience may dictate which approach is appropriate. When addressing a group, a logical position is more than likely the best approach. Showing a positive confident, logical approach allows members of the group to easily follow and allow yourself to give examples that make sense and are logical to follow. This approach I believe works best in that situation, however in a setting of brainstorming or taking the approach of argument would be best suited for small group discussions and not addressing larger crowds. When me and my team are utilizing this approach for example in grading awards, packages. We all try to remain biased in the approach of it but when all members have a member in the fold it is hard to remain biased. In our small groups we may argue and throughout hypotheticals to help remove certain biases to get to the bottom of whom is the most deserving nominee, and not “the best person that works for you” this process helps us to see through certain bias we may have while we are reviewing and researching data on the members. I believe this approach to be more complicated, as the approach takes time to pull out of individuals and get them thinking in a manner that produces the best results.
Aaron
3. Good research is not easy. It relies on a logical position, arrived at through logical argumentation. Constructing a logical position through logical argumentation lends structure and direction to the investigative journey. This process serves as the intellectual scaffolding upon which the entire research endeavor is erected. Logical argumentation imbues the process with purpose and significance. At its essence, a well-formed logical position serves to delineate the boundaries of inquiry (Foresman et al., 2017, ch. 1). It defines the context and scope of the study. It crystallizes the research question or hypothesis, even as it provides a compass to navigate a complex landscape of information. This initial step is akin to laying the foundation of a sturdy edifice – without it, the subsequent construction risks becoming disjointed and haphazard. Furthermore, the act of constructing a logical argument demands a meticulous analysis of existing literature. Researchers are compelled to sift through previous studies to identify gaps, inconsistencies, and opportunities for contribution. This analytical exercise hones critical thinking skills and facilitates a deeper engagement with the subject matter. As the argument takes shape, a narrative emerges—one that weaves together disparate threads of knowledge into a cohesive fabric.
Someone might argue that developing an argument is more complex than constructing a logical position due to the intricate nature of crafting a cohesive and well-supported narrative. But in terms of which is more complicated, neither constructing a logical position nor developing an argument can claim superiority. They are symbiotic, each reliant on the other for its full realization. Constructing a logical position is the initial brushstroke on the canvas while developing an argument adds depth and color. When they are in harmony, they result in effective scholarly exploration capable of advancing human knowledge.
References
Foresman, G. A., Fosl, P., & Watson, J. (2017). The critical thinking toolkit. John Wiley & Sons.