Do you believe that citation helps reenforce an argument point?
by 
Simply99 -- Not a fan favorite.
ANSWERS: 7
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Only if the arguers are open to modifying their positions. Otherwise, citation only gives them more attack points (the author of the citation, its perceived validity and/or applicability to the current discussion etc.). Of course, if arguers were open to modifying their positions, they'd be talking, not arguing ;).
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Some "studies" are specious and are put out there by interested parties, with hidden attribution..so, for example, drug companies putting out studies that give false information about their products would put forth their position, but be based on lies or withholding the truth. Anyone can cite anything at any time..doesn't make it true. Doctors in bed with lobbyists will put out major pronouncements.."sugar is good for you"..let's see..the Sugar Lobby paid big time for that. ..and so it goes. So cite if you must, but do your homework first. :)
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you should never include into your papers anything that is unnecessary to your argument, and you should include all that is necessary. If any of your premises are not common knowledge and you got them from another source than your own inductions and deductions, then you must cite your source. It is academic courtesy and outside the learning environment it is the law. In the learning environment it also may be required to dig up a few citations for your assignment. In that case, the goal is to teach you to research, to write in academic style, and to support your non-common knowledge claims with reputable sources rather than your own untrained mind. Yes, when used properly citations help to reinforce your points. They are your friends. A good way to use them is to provide quotes from philosophers, and then offer your interpretation in support of your own claims.
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Yes, I think it can in a debate situation or a legal argument. Everyone now and then, not often, a citation will lead me to some new information that I influence my stand.
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Sure! Two heads are better'n one, no?! ;-)
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In a formal argument, where both sides present information for the purpose of supporting their position, yes, depending on the source. If the citation is Uncle Herb, then it wouldn't be worth much.
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Sure, as long as the citation at least tries to properly pertain to the point being enforced by it in respect to the discussion at hand, and not just some fancy but meaningless quote.
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