Kinds of Evidence Nov. 13, 2014

Kinds of Evidence from Secondary Sources Facts or Statistic – knowledge or information that most people would find incontrovertible (information almost everyone agrees with no matter their views). Definition – statements clarifying the meaning of important terminology Opinion or Interpretation – A viewpoint or opinion a person holds on the issue; the major explanation or rationale someone gives for events or problems; can be expert or non-expert opinion Policy or Law – The official procedures, rules, laws, and guidelines that guide decisions and judgment on an issue; also the procedures, actions, rules, laws, and/or guidelines that can be proposed to deal with the issue. Example – information that provides one specific instance or case regarding the issue.

Using Stasis to Investigate Background Facts/Stats Cited information that is not in question Standard expert understanding Numerical or Statistical Data The confirmed or official history? Dates, Places, etc. What is the scientific or expert input on this? Definition Key words used to communicate the topic Expert or legal definitions Dictionary / common usage definitions Connotations of words and terms used Opinion Cited relevant viewpoints, opinions, and attitudes on the issue Rationalizations or justifications by experts or non- experts Experts’ interpretations of existing data or facts. Policy The official existing procedures, rules, laws and legal decisions, and /or guidelines by governments or organizations Actions, procedures, rules, laws, legal decisions, or guidelines have been suggested proposed. Example Stories about individuals Specific cases that have occurred at specific places/times One situation or case that shows what is typical