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The Vicious Circle Theorem – a Graph-Theoretical Analysis of Dialectical Structures

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Abstract

This article sets up a graph-theoretical framework for argumentation-analysis (dialectical analysis) which expands classical argument-analysis. Within this framework, a main theorem on the existence of inconsistencies in debates is stated and proved: the vicious circle theorem. Subsequently, two corollaries which generalize the main theorem are derived. Finally, a brief outlook is given on further expansions and possible applications of the developed framework.

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Correspondence to Gregor Betz.

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Betz, G. The Vicious Circle Theorem – a Graph-Theoretical Analysis of Dialectical Structures. Argumentation 19, 53–64 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10503-004-2068-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10503-004-2068-9

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