Evaluation Arguments

1
Evaluation Arguments

• X is/is not a (good) Y

2
Criteria-Match Structure

• Definition Arguments debate whether Y belongs in
  category X
• Evaluation Arguments Y belongs in X, but is it a
  good or bad example of X?

3
Establishing Standards

• What is typical?
• What is ideal?
• Are there mitigating circumstances (i.e., unusual
  conditions that may alter the standard of
  judgment)?

4
Factors Influencing Evaluations

• Empirical measures complex judgments may not be
  made easier by mathematical calculations.
• Cost even if X is the best example of Y, will it
  cost too much?

5
Determining Criteria

• What category (Y) does the object, person,
  policy, etc. (X) being evaluated belong in?
• What is the purpose or function of this category?

6
Determining Criteria, cont.

• You MUST determine criteria based on the purposes
  or function of the category to which X belongs.
• You MUST weight the criteria which are most
  important?