Argument topics
Koinoi Topoi In classical rhetoric, the Common Topics (koinoi topoi) were a short list of four traditional topics regarded as suitable to structure an argument.
Four traditional topics
- Past Fact (Circumstance)
- Possible/Impossible (Possibility)
- Future Fact (Circumstance)
- Greater/Lesser (Comparison)
Edward P.J. Corbett and Robert J. Connors expanded the list in their 1971 book Classical Rhetoric for the Modern Student to include:
| Topic | Topic | Topic |
|---|---|---|
| Genus / Division / Species | Etymology | Description |
| Definition | Example | Synonyms |
| Comparison | Similarity | Difference |
| Degree | Circumstance | Cause And Effect |
| Timing | Relationship | Contraries |
| Exclusion | Testimony | Statistics |
| Maxims | Law | Precedents |
| Personal Example | Historical Example | Authoritative Quotes |
