Justificationor

Justificationor is a term used in discussions of argumentation theory and rhetoric to describe a device in which a speaker presents multiple grounds for a conclusion, any one of which would suffice to justify it. The word blends “justification” with the conjunction “or” to indicate a disjunction among independent justifications.

In practice, a justificationor enables a claim to be supported by several distinct lines of justification. This approach can increase persuasiveness by appealing to different audiences or by showing that the conclusion rests on more than a single argument. It can also help anticipate potential counterarguments by acknowledging their possible grounds.

Example: A city council proposes a new transit policy. Justificationor grounds might include (a) reducing travel time for commuters, (b) lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and (c) improving accessibility for people with disabilities. If any one of these grounds is compelling, the policy is defended; together they present a robust case.

Formalization and related concepts: In informal dialogue, the device resembles a disjunction of justifications (J1 or J2 or J3) that would validate the conclusion C. It is related to, but distinct from, bundled-justification strategies and other rhetorical devices that present multiple causes or reasons.

Critique and usage: Critics argue that a justificationor can mask weak individual grounds by focusing on quantity rather than quality. Proponents see it as a practical way to articulate multifaceted support and to adapt to diverse audiences.

See also: Justification, Argumentation theory, Disjunction, Rhetorical strategy