Final answer:
A statement or claim backed up by reasons is known as an argument. Arguments use logical reasoning and evidence, sometimes supplemented by emotional appeals, but must ultimately rest on factual evidence and logical constructs to persuade a critical audience.
Step-by-step explanation:
A statement or claim backed up by reasons is known as an argument. An argument is presented by advancing claims and supporting them with logical reasoning and evidence. Logical reasoning might include cause and effect, comparison and contrast, or problem and solution, and evidence can range from facts, statistics, to anecdotes. Arguments are often strengthened by employing rhetorical strategies such as ethos, pathos, and logos. Ethos appeals to the authority and credibility of the speaker, pathos to the audience's feelings, and logos to facts and logical reasoning.
While emotional appeals can be compelling by targeting a range of emotions such as fear, sympathy, or anger, they do not necessarily support the conclusion with relevant evidence. Skilled communicators recognize that to persuade a critical audience, a balance of emotional appeal and factual support is often necessary. It's essential to not let emotional appeals eclipse the necessary logical reason and evidence that form the core of a reliable argument.