Arguments

Core Concept

Arguments are claims with evidence that support or oppose positions in a decision.

What are Arguments?

An argument is a claim made for or against a position. Unlike casual comments, arguments have structure: a clear claim and supporting evidence. This structure makes it easier to evaluate the merits of each position objectively.

For example, for the position "Use PostgreSQL":

Supporting argument: "PostgreSQL has excellent JSON support" — with evidence about JSONB performance benchmarks
Opposing argument: "PostgreSQL requires more ops overhead" — with evidence about maintenance requirements

Argument Structure

Claim

A clear, specific assertion. Good claims are debatable but defensible. Example: "React has a larger talent pool than Vue in our market."

Evidence

Supporting data, links, or reasoning. Can include benchmarks, documentation, case studies, or expert opinions. Example: "LinkedIn job postings show 3x more React positions in our city."

Stance

Whether this argument supports or opposes the position. The stance determines how the argument is displayed and grouped in the UI.

Creating Arguments

Arguments can be created in several ways:

From Magic Paste: When you paste text, Arbtr extracts arguments automatically from the discussion.
Manual creation: Click "Add Argument" on a position card and fill in the claim and evidence.
Promote from comment: If someone makes a good point in comments, you can promote it to a formal argument.

tip

Arbtr checks arguments for completeness (does it have evidence?) but never rates argument quality. We believe rating arguments creates toxic dynamics.

Linking Arguments

Arguments can be linked to show how they relate to each other:

Supports

This argument provides additional backing for another argument. Creates a chain of reasoning that strengthens the case.

Reinforces

This argument covers similar ground from a different angle. Shows convergent evidence pointing to the same conclusion.

Linked arguments are displayed as threads in the UI, making it easier to follow chains of reasoning.

Rebuttals

A rebuttal is a direct response to an argument. Unlike creating a new opposing argument, rebuttals are attached to specific arguments and address their specific claims.

Use rebuttals when you want to:

Challenge the evidence in an argument
Point out flaws in reasoning
Provide counter-evidence
Add nuance or caveats

Best Practices

Be specific

"PostgreSQL is better" is a weak argument. "PostgreSQL's JSONB queries are 10x faster than MongoDB for our read patterns" is strong.

Cite sources

Link to benchmarks, documentation, or prior decisions. Evidence that can be verified is more persuasive than assertions.

Steel-man opposing views

When arguing against a position, acknowledge its genuine strengths. This builds trust and leads to better decisions.

One claim per argument

If you have multiple points, create multiple arguments. This makes it easier to discuss and rebut individual claims.

Positions

Voting

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