visual interact #2

Now let's practice the visual construction of the previous argument. You'll be able to construct the
argument visually just as you did with the earlier example in the pop-up box. Point the arrow of
your mouse to the symbol, click-and-drag the symbol to the space on the right to construct the
visual argument. The symbol for the conclusion is already provided. Go back to the first example if
you need to refresh your memory on the procedure. Here's the example you'll construct visually:

Exercise

(1) We shouldn't buy that new building set for Jimmy because (2) he hasn't learned to take care of the toys he already has. (3) Just yesterday he shoved all his toys into the closet or kicked them under his bed. (4) Besides, I don't think he's old enough yet for that set. (5) The box says it's for 8 to 10-year-olds, and Jimmy is only 4.

This example above is a bit more complex than the first visual example where we simply had
a conclusion supported by two separate reasons. Here you may find a conclusion supported by
a reason which in turn is supported by another reason. Reasons which are supported by other
reasons form mini-arguments within the main argument.

Let's take the following argument as an example:
                     Conclusion: (1) John shouldn't run for treasurer.
                         Reasons:  (2) He doesn't know how to handle money.
                                           (3) Just yesterday he deposited money into the wrong account.
Here we have (1) supported by (2), and (2) in turn is supported by (3). Using our standard
visual symbol set, this is what the argument looks like visually:

The blue arrow/triangle symbol has been used to represent (2) because if you look at (2) in relation
to the conclusion (1), then (2) functions as a reason ( thus the arrow part of the symbol). On the other
hand, if you look at (2) in relation to (3), then (2) functions as a mini-conclusion ( thus the triangle part
of the symbol ) which is supported by (3).

Before you begin constructing the argument given above, try to identify which reasons function as
mini-conclusions so that you can select the blue arrow/triangles for them as you go through the
click-and-drag process. Now you're ready to begin the visual construction of the argument at the top
of the page. Just click on "tutorial."